The 2025 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) returned with the theme "Embrace Intelligent Technologies, Empower Trade in Services." This year, African participants highlighted opportunities to deepen cultural exchange, boost value-added exports, and drive sustainable development through partnerships with China.
Voices from the Ground
Emma Mutijima, Rwandan coffee exporter and CEO of Phoenix Ventures Limited, shared her experience:
"This is actually my second time at CIFTIS. The first time was already a success. We met valuable partners and got to introduce Rwandan coffee to new audiences in China. This year, what really struck me is how much more diverse and dynamic the Expo has become. For us, the goal isn't just to find buyers; it's to connect with long-term partners who want to build sustainable supply chains that benefit not just our companies, but also the farmers and communities back in Rwanda."
"We are not just bringing coffee beans—we are bringing the story of our farmers, the story of our culture, and the resilience of our people. Robust platforms like CIFTIS are powerful because they allow our African brands to show the world that our products carry identity and African pride. It's more about building bridges, not just closing deals."
Titus Nampala, CEO of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized coordination and regional strategy:
"When we engage in these expos, one of the key questions is: how do you connect the two nations? How do we export our culture? And that can take various forms."
"Africa must look to start producing, sometimes that starts at home, or as a regional block. We must stop being consumers of other people's products without producing for ourselves. Sustainability and food security are crucial. We have an opportunity to learn from our Chinese partners and ensure that investment deals include technology transfer and local business involvement."
Key Discussion Points
- Cultural Exchange: African brands use expos like CIFTIS to share heritage, strengthen identity, and build long-term partnerships.
- Value Addition: From coffee to minerals, businesses are moving up the value chain to export finished goods.
- Technology & Innovation: Knowledge sharing in green tech, e-governance, and digital finance drives joint solutions.
- Tourism & Integration: Streamlined visas and regional marketing position Africa as a collective destination.
- Africa as Innovator: Co-creation of solutions—from electric mobility to AI—shows the continent's role as an innovation partner.
Looking Ahead
Participants agreed that Africa can "leapfrog" development stages by focusing on youth, resources, and strategic partnerships. CIFTIS 2025 has underscored a multi-dimensional Africa–China relationship built on reciprocity, sustainability, and shared growth.
Reference(s):
CIFTIS 2025: How Africa benefit from China's trade in services
cgtn.com
