New China-Africa Economic Hub Set to Revolutionize Trade in Guangzhou's Nansha Area

New China-Africa Trade Hub Opens in Guangzhou's Nansha

In a significant development for international trade, the China-Africa Economic and Trade Greater Bay Area International Business Center was officially opened on October 14 in Nansha District, Guangzhou. This facility is the first of its kind within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and is aimed at fostering robust economic cooperation between China and African nations.

The establishment of the hub was a joint effort between the Nansha District Government and the China-Africa Friendly Economic and Trade Development Foundation. Designed as a comprehensive platform, it provides not only office spaces but also venues for trade and cultural exchange. Moreover, the center offers essential services such as policy consulting, legal support, and supply chain coordination—all integral for businesses looking to enhance their operations between the two regions.

Zhang Yi, the president of the foundation, emphasized the pivotal role of the Greater Bay Area as a vital connector between China and Africa. He pointed out the exceptional industrial strengths, logistical capacity, and market opportunities that the area offers. According to him, the foundation is committed to collaborating with Nansha to attract increased trade with African countries, thus setting a new standard for Sino-African cooperation.

A highlight of the inauguration ceremony was the establishment of the China-Madagascar (Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area) Economic and Trade Cooperation Center, marking it as the first African institution to deploy operations within the new hub. Madagascar's Ambassador to China, Jean Louis Robinson, expressed gratitude for China's partnership in Madagascar's growth and praised the center's launch as a crucial step toward implementing their shared goals. He highlighted Nansha's 25 shipping routes directed towards Africa and its favorable tax policies as foundational elements for creating a comprehensive system revolving around African demand, Chinese processing, and Nansha sales.

Looking forward, the center intends to promote joint investments between China and Africa in various sectors, including agriculture, mining, new energy, and smart port technologies.

Nansha, recognized as one of China's largest hub ports, handled an impressive 20.5 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) in 2024, placing it ninth globally. With connections to over 310 ports across 120 countries and regions, it provides a rapid global transit option for cargo.

Moreover, UNESCO has acknowledged Nansha as a livable urban area, offering exceptional coastal, cultural, sports, and cruise facilities. This comprehensive far-reaching infrastructure makes it an ideal location for both international business operations and living.

The district is also accelerating the establishment of a service base designed to assist Chinese enterprises in expanding their global footprint. These efforts include partnerships with five African economic zones, six business associations, three investment promotion agencies, and five consulates or embassies, broadening its influence across 15 African nations and territories.

As the China-Africa Economic and Trade Greater Bay Area International Business Center opens its doors, it holds the promise of revitalizing trade dynamics between the two regions, heralding a new era of cooperation filled with potential opportunities.