From Lender to Trader: China's Africa Model Evolves Around the AfCFTA

New research describes a more diverse and cautious partnership as infrastructure lending declines and direct investment remains important.

Wider zero-tariff access to the Chinese market could support African agricultural and manufactured exports, while the AfCFTA gives investors access to a larger integrated market.

The central challenge is balancing fast-growing two-way trade by strengthening African exports, regional value chains, industrial capacity, and sustainable finance.