At the bustling halls of the 8th China International Import Expo in the Chinese mainland, Africa is taking center stage. With over 4,000 exhibitors from 155 countries and regions, this year’s expo set records in both scale and diversity. African participation jumped 80% year-on-year, as 17 countries joined the Country Exhibition with a lineup of businesses eager to showcase their best.
African Pavilions Shine
From rich teas in Zimbabwe to Rwanda’s signature coffee, African pavilions paint a dynamic picture of creativity and innovation. Zimbabwe’s pavilion hosts 15 exhibitors, plus another 15 companies networking on the sidelines. “Our natural teas, leather goods and crafts reflect Zimbabwe’s growing export diversification,” says Kupakwaishe Midzi of ZimTrade.
Michelle Umurungi of the Rwanda Development Board notes a dozen Rwandan brands in Shanghai. “Chinese consumers love our coffee, tea and honey. CIIE is our chance to deepen market footholds and boost trade.” In Namibia, agribusinesses are leveraging the expo to drive MSME growth under Senior Trade Advisor Maria Immanuel’s guidance.
Deepening Trade Ties
Trade relations between Namibia and China continue to flourish. A 2018 operations agreement paved the way for beef exports in 2019, and Namibia shipped 600 tons of beef to China in 2024. Lobsters and fishery products soon followed, with table grapes, citrus and blueberries set for new market access.
Zimbabwe, too, is eyeing fresh exports. “We’re ironing out final protocols so our blueberries can debut at the next CIIE,” says Midzi. China remains Zimbabwe’s largest investor—Chinese firms made up over 60% of new foreign investment approvals in 2024.
Zero-Tariff Game Changer
The expo’s zero-tariff policy for least-developed countries is a breakthrough. It lowers barriers, making African products immediately more competitive. “Duty-free access to one of the world’s biggest markets gives our MSMEs a real edge,” Immanuel explains. Rwanda and Zimbabwe are already using the policy to refine quality and packaging, preparing for larger-scale exports.
Looking Ahead
Africa’s next frontier is value-added goods and services. From blueberries to tech-driven tourism, the continent and China have mutual opportunities to co-create. “Manufacturing and service trade—especially in tourism—are untapped goldmines,” says Immanuel. With CIIE as a launchpad, African nations are unlocking new pathways to shared prosperity and innovation.
Reference(s):
CIIE: Africa's gateway to growth, innovation and opportunity
cgtn.com
