Research Brief: China-Africa Economic Bulletin, 2026 Edition
2026-05-20
It tracks the decline in large loan commitments, the rebound of selected investments, and the continuing expansion of merchandise trade between China and Africa.
Chinese lending to Africa has fallen from its earlier peaks and is now more selective, with finance, transport, and energy remaining important sectors.
Trade and direct investment have recovered, but outcomes vary widely across countries. Resource exporters often run surpluses while many large consumer markets record deficits.
The bulletin argues for more resilient finance, export diversification, local value addition, and closer alignment with African development priorities.