Trade between China and Africa reached a record $196.6 billion during the first half of 2026, according to the Chinese government, as Beijing continues to deepen its economic engagement with the continent.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, described the figure as the strongest trade performance recorded between China and Africa for the first six months of a year. He attributed the growth partly to China’s zero-tariff policy for African countries and expressed confidence that bilateral trade would increase further before the end of 2026.
The latest figures highlight the expanding economic relationship between China and African countries, with both sides seeking to increase trade, investment and industrial cooperation.
According to Lin, approximately 75 per cent of China’s exports to Africa comprise capital and intermediate goods. These include products and equipment that support industrial development, infrastructure and agricultural modernization.
The Chinese official argued that the composition of exports demonstrates that China’s trade relationship with Africa extends beyond the supply of consumer goods. He said Chinese exports are increasingly contributing to productive sectors that can support economic growth and development across the continent.
Lin also rejected criticism that China’s trade relationship with Africa is unbalanced. He described such claims as efforts to undermine cooperation between Beijing and African countries, insisting that the relationship is based on mutual economic interests.
China has increasingly positioned itself as a major trading and investment partner for Africa, with its engagement spanning infrastructure, manufacturing, energy, agriculture, telecommunications and technology.
The record trade figures come amid growing global economic uncertainty and rising protectionist policies that have affected international commerce. Despite these challenges, Beijing said it remains committed to expanding economic cooperation with African nations.
Lin said China would continue working to improve market access for African products and facilitate trade between the two sides. The objective, he indicated, is to promote stronger economic ties and create more opportunities for African businesses to access the Chinese market.
The emphasis on African exports is particularly significant as many countries on the continent seek to diversify their economies and increase the value of goods produced locally. Greater access to international markets could help African producers expand their businesses, increase export revenues and support job creation.
However, questions about the balance of China-Africa trade are likely to remain part of the broader debate over the economic relationship. While China is a major destination for some African commodities, the continent continues to import substantial volumes of manufactured and industrial goods from China.
The latest record therefore underscores both the scale of the relationship and the importance of efforts to strengthen African exports and domestic production.
As China and African countries continue to expand their commercial ties, the focus is expected to remain on increasing two-way trade, improving market access and encouraging investment that supports industrialization and sustainable economic development.
