Rwanda’s Strategic Move to Streuggle in the Chinese Market
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) Chief Investment Officer, Michelle Umurungi, has expressed optimism that Rwanda can gain a stronger foothold in the Chinese market as Rwandan companies showcase their products at the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE). The event, which runs from November 5-10 in Shanghai, China, has set new records in both exhibition area and exhibitor numbers, bringing together over 4,000 exhibitors from 155 countries and regions. African participation at this year’s CIIE has grown significantly, with 17 countries represented in the Country Exhibition and an 80 percent year-on-year increase in the number of participating businesses.
As Africa’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years, China continues to expand market access for African products and services, strengthening economic and trade cooperation across the continent. How is the CIIE helping to create new pathways for Africa’s growth, innovation, and shared development with China?
Insights from Industry Experts
Michelle Umurungi, Chief Investment Officer at RDB, Maria Immanuel, Senior Trade Advisor at the Namibian Agronomic Board, and Kupakwaishe Midzi, Client Advisor in the Export Development Department of ZimTrade, shared their insights on how the CIIE is shaping the future of African trade with China.
African Pavilions at CIIE 2025
Kupakwaishe Midzi highlighted the vibrant showcases of African pavilions at the event. These displays include a wide variety of products, from agricultural produce to premium beverages and wines, essential oils, and processed foods. Zimbabwe has 15 companies exhibiting under the Zimbabwe pavilion, while about 15 non-exhibiting companies have come to explore opportunities for those exhibiting.
Michelle Umurungi noted that the energy at the CIIE is vibrant, with several African country pavilions present. For Rwanda, a dozen companies are exhibiting, including products like coffee, tea, and honey, which are well-received by Chinese consumers.
Maria Immanuel emphasized the importance of the country pavilion for African countries, providing a platform to showcase their image and explore trade and investment opportunities. Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are taking center stage, allowing them to network and access one of the world’s largest markets.
Trade Relations Between Africa and China
Maria Immanuel shared that trade relations between Namibia and China have grown over the years. In 2024, Namibia recorded a trade surplus with China. A trade operations agreement was established in 2018, leading to the export of beef and fishery products to China. Currently, Namibia is finalizing trade agreements on table grapes, citrus, and blueberries.
Kupakwaishe Midzi discussed the significance of the CIIE for Zimbabwe. Following the signing of a blueberry export protocol during President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s visit to China in September, there are still some housekeeping issues to resolve before Zimbabwean blueberries can be showcased at the expo. However, the event offers an opportunity to raise Zimbabwe’s profile as a reliable exporter and attract Chinese investment.
Zero-Tariff Treatment and Its Impact
A special section for the least-developed countries’ products was launched alongside an upgraded Africa products section, helping African businesses leverage zero-tariff treatment to enter the Chinese market. This initiative has had a significant impact on the presence of companies from various African countries.
Maria Immanuel described the zero tariff treatment as a game changer for Africa, offering immediate competitive advantages. It stimulates manufacturing in African nations and expands beyond Africa by trading services and goods. The Chinese market, with its duty-free access, presents a significant opportunity for African countries to attract investment and leverage innovation.
Kupakwaishe Midzi added that the zero tariff policy is a welcome initiative for Zimbabwean exporters, lowering barriers and enhancing competitiveness. This preferential treatment opens doors for African producers, increasing interest from companies to engage with China.
New Opportunities for Trade and Investment
Kupakwaishe Midzi highlighted the compelling opportunities between Zimbabwe and China, including natural resources and value-added processing. Zimbabwe is making headway in the global horticultural market, with exports growing at a compound annual growth rate of around 38% over the past five years.
Maria Immanuel emphasized the need for Africa to upscale beyond raw materials, focusing on adding value to products for the global market. She also highlighted the potential for trading services, noting that tourism has emerged as a significant opportunity between Africa and China.