The evolution of Sino-African relations: past and the future

Abstract

This paper presents Chinese re-emergence showing the nature of the investment viz-a-viz that of the Western world. In the opening section, China’s emergence and re-emergence in Africa are presented in historical terms. The paper further look at the investment patterns, the sector(s), the dichotomy between Chinese government and private sector led investments as well as implications for economic development in Africa. In addition, the paper also examines the trade between African countries and China, the balance of trade, trade deficit, likely african countries to benefit and likely African countries to lose and why. We would show that China’s re-emergence is of immense benefits to African countries. Lastly, this paper will look at the lessons of development regarding China’s re-emergence and the public policy implications for African countries particularly in terms of economic development and poverty reduction.
Key words: China, Africa, the Sino-african relations, economic interests, trade disbalance.