China’s exports to Africa have soared by 25% year-on-year, reaching $122 billion dollars so far in 2025. According to reports, this spike reflects a growing demand from African nations, especially Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt, which have emerged as China’s top trade destinations on the continent.
The continent’s trade volume with China has already surpassed the total recorded in 2020 and is on track to exceed $200 billion dollars for the first time. Among the fastest-growing exports were construction machinery, which rose by 63% in the first seven months of 2025. Passenger car shipments more than doubled, while steel products saw significant double-digit increases. According to data from the climate think tank Ember, there has also been a major uptick in solar panel imports, which grew by 60% year-on-year through June.
Despite the impressive figures, Africa still accounts for only around 6% of China’s total exports, about half the share held by the United States. According to reports, the rise in exports is partially attributed to escalating tensions between China and the United States, prompting Chinese manufacturers to seek alternative markets, including Africa.
