China and Africa
Why China is important for Africa
China's role in Africa is growing substantially. In 2000 the
two-way trade between China and Africa was worth $10 billion. By
2007 it had reached $70 billion. In 2008 it reached $106 billion,
with a surplus in favour of Africa.
In 2007, China provided finance for as much infrastructure in Africa
(estimated at over $4 billion) as all the G8 countries added
together.
Starting from a small base, China’s aid is set to double by 2009. China’s
growing trade and investment with Africa and its successful poverty reduction
experience offer major opportunities for African development.
UK and China – partners for Africa’s development
China’s support for African development has been warmly welcomed by many of
the continent's leaders. The UK and China have been discussing ways in which both our
countries can work together to achieve the
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in Africa. This involves regular
meetings between ministers and officials in Beijing and London.
Gordon Brown and Premier Wen Jiabao met in London in February
2009 for the UK China Summit. Africa featured prominently in the
summit, as it had in their 2008 meetings. Both countries want to
work together to promote development in Africa and both governments
are supporting the China Africa Business Council to improve the
development impact of private sector trade and investment in up to
20 African countries.
The UK will also provide support to a WWF project on sustainable
trade in forestry and timber between China and East Africa. Both
countries have also agreed a new programme of collaboration on food
security, including with African partners. In addition, 2009 will
see China and the UK host a major conference with agricultural experts
and African officials. These unique, trilateral projects signify a
new phase of cooperation on development.
Why does China want to speak to the UK?
China recognises that the UK is a major development partner in Africa. We have an extensive network of offices in Africa with expert and experienced
staff. We are also fellow permanent members of the UN Security Council. In
addition, the UK has had an extremely successful bilateral programme of aid to
China. In recent years this has been heavily focused on the MDGs.
Not just words
It is fair to say that there is generally little information and analysis on
China’s impact in Africa. To address this, DFID has earmarked £1 million over
the next three years to fund strategic studies, capacity building and seminars
so that African officials, researchers and non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
can be better informed in their own dialogues and discussions with China. DFID
is also supporting the World Bank as it develops its relationships with important
Chinese organisations such as the China Export-Import Bank and the China
Development Bank.
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Find out more
More information about China's role in African development is available in
the following DFID Factsheets:
Recent trade developments between Africa and China are described in this
short note:
Also, read these studies from the Centre for Chinese Studies at
Stellenbosch University:
The South Africa Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) carried out a
series of studies funded under the China
Africa Project. Read the reports:
If you have any questions or need further information about China and Africa, email
Mark George at m-george@dfid.gov.uk.
Last updated: 6 March 2009
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