On June 12, the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo opened in Changsha, Hunan, themed “China-Africa Joint Action: Pursuing Modernization.” Marking the 25th anniversary of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the start of implementing the 2024 FOCAC Beijing Summit outcomes, this event underscores the deepening partnership between China and Africa.
The expo aligns with the “Ten-Partner Actions” for jointly advancing modernization, featuring 100,000 square meters of exhibition space. It hosts specialized zones for clean energy, fashion, and mining technology, alongside showcases of African culture and products. With participation from 53 African countries, 11 international organizations, and over 4,700 enterprises, it highlights diverse collaboration opportunities. Notably, 279 signed projects (43.8% more than the previous expo) worth $11.39 billion will be finalized, covering construction, energy, and digital services.
Since FOCAC’s establishment in 2000, China-Africa trade has surged, reaching $295.6 billion in 2024—up 4.8% year-on-year and a fourth consecutive record high. China has remained Africa’s top trading partner for 16 years. New initiatives, such as a 1 billion yuan service fund for China-Africa trade and innovative trade facilitation mechanisms, aim to further boost cooperation in green industries, e-commerce, and AI.
Beyond economics, the expo fosters cultural exchanges. Events like the 2025 China-Africa Film Week and the announcement of “Sing Africa,” a music talent show, strengthen people-to-people bonds. The momentum continues, with China’s trade with Africa hitting 963.21 billion yuan in the first five months of 2023, up 12.4% year-on-year.
As African countries showcase products via livestreaming and participants engage in industry talks, both sides express optimism. Namibia, a guest country, plans high-level business meetings, while Chinese firms like Sunmed Biotech and Zoomlion aim to expand services and infrastructure support in Africa. The expo thus serves as a pivotal platform, driving trade, innovation, and a shared vision for sustainable development.
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