China has overtaken the US as the preferred trading partner for most African countries. In 2003, 18 out of 54 African countries traded more with China than the US. By 2023, that number increased to 52 countries.
*Key Factors:*
- *Initiatives*: China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) aim to boost trade and economic ties with Africa.
- *Trade Volume*: China-Africa trade reached $295 billion in 2024, marking a 6% year-on-year increase.
- *Economic Ties*: China's growing presence in Africa is driven by investments in infrastructure, trade, and strengthening African value chains [1].
