The Expansion of Chinese Influence in Africa

(February 2023) Over the last two decades China has become the largest trade partner for African countries displacing France and US as Africa's major trade partners.

• According to the UN Comtrade data between 2000 and 2021 Africa's imports from China increased from $5 to $148 billions. In 2007 China replaced France as the largest origin of Africa's imports. Share of China in Africa imports increased from 4% in 2000 to 23% in 2021.
• Africa's exports to China increased from $5 to $106 billions. between 2000 and 2021. In 2011 China replaced US as the largest destination of Africa's exports. Share of China in Africa exports increased from 3% in 2000 to 18% in 2021.

Though China announced plans to strengthen the relationships with Africa, African Development Bank warns about three major risks of high Africa dependence on China. These risks include geopolitical risks, risk of a Chinese economic slowdown, and risks of unfair competition between Chinese and with local African entities.