Africa -China Review Africa -China Cooperation and Transformation
By Staff writer
The China International Import Expo (CIIE) has emerged as a pivotal platform for African countries seeking to enhance their presence in the Chinese market. Since its inception in 2018, the CIIE has facilitated direct trade engagements, significantly boosting African exports and fostering economic growth across the continent.
Historically, African exporters faced challenges in penetrating the Chinese market, often relying on intermediaries. The CIIE has revolutionized this dynamic by providing a direct interface between African producers and Chinese consumers. For instance, Ethiopian coffee brands like Gera have secured agreements to sell their Yirgacheffe and Sidamo varieties on popular Chinese e-commerce platforms, enabling direct access to a vast consumer base.
Similarly, Rwanda’s participation in the CIIE has been instrumental in increasing its exports to China. From 2017 to 2022, Rwanda’s exports to China grew from $28.9 million to $70.5 million, with products such as coffee, tea, chili, and honey gaining prominence in the Chinese market
The CIIE serves as a conduit for establishing trade agreements and attracting investments. At the 6th CIIE, Gambia secured investment agreements with several Chinese companies, enhancing its export capabilities. Moreover, the expo’s emphasis on African agricultural products has led to increased procurement deals, benefiting exporters from countries like Niger, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Benin.
The CIIE provides African countries with an opportunity to showcase their products to a global audience. In 2023, the expo featured 43 African country pavilions, 27 stands for African businesses and organizations, and 20 African agricultural companies. Notably, Benin’s presentation of its sugarloaf pineapples, its first protected Geographical Indication product, attracted significant attention from Chinese consumers and media
Additionally, the expo’s support for African exhibitors, including free booths and tax benefits for least developed countries, has lowered entry barriers and encouraged broader participation
The CIIE has been instrumental in strengthening bilateral trade relations between China and African countries. In 2023, the bilateral trade volume between China and Rwanda reached $552 million, marking a 16.5% increase from the previous year. This growth is attributed to the increased visibility and demand for Rwandan products in the Chinese market.
Similarly, Kenya’s avocado exports to China have seen remarkable growth. From $1.08 million in 2022, exports surged to $7.6 million within the first nine months of 2023, with China now accounting for 30% of Kenya’s fresh avocado exports.
The CIIE’s initiatives align with broader efforts to promote sustainable and inclusive growth in Africa. China’s establishment of a “green channel” for African agricultural products has facilitated the entry of items like citrus from South Africa and sesame from Tanzania into the Chinese market, enhancing trade efficiency and reducing barriers.
Furthermore, China’s zero-tariff policy on 100% of product categories from least developed countries has provided African exporters with a competitive edge, fostering economic development and job creation across the continent.
The China International Import Expo stands as a testament to the evolving dynamics of global trade, offering African countries a strategic platform to access the expansive Chinese market. Through direct engagements, trade agreements, and increased visibility, the CIIE has significantly contributed to the growth of African exports, fostering economic development and strengthening bilateral relations between China and Africa.
As African nations continue to leverage the opportunities presented by the CIIE, the expo remains a cornerstone in their pursuit of sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
