The 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo: A Global Gathering for Modernization

The 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo has officially commenced in Changsha, the capital city of Hunan Province, China, on June 12, 2025. This year’s event is the most significant in the expo's history, convening leaders and representatives from various nations and organizations to discuss economic collaboration and modernization under the theme “China and Africa Together Toward Modernization.”

Notable figures gracing the opening ceremony include Ugandan Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, Liberian Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung, and Kenyan Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, reflecting the event's importance on both continental and international stages.

A Global Participation

This year's expo has successfully attracted participation from 53 African countries, 11 international organizations, and 27 Chinese provinces and cities, totaling over 4,700 enterprises, business associations, and financial institutions from across both regions. With registered attendance surpassing 30,000, the expo serves as a vital platform for fostering economic ties and enhancing bilateral trade between China and Africa.

The expo features a massive 100,000-square-meter exhibition space, showcasing much more than just economic highlights. With dedicated country pavilions from 26 African nations and promotion booths representing 23 Chinese regions, the venue is meticulously organized into six specialized pavilions focusing on sectors like smart mining, clean energy, and modern agriculture.

New Highlights and Exhibitions

A key highlight this year is the introduction of dedicated exhibitions for “African Quality Products” and a showcase of the China-Africa Fashion Industry. These exhibitions aim to promote premium agricultural produce, handicrafts, and food products from Africa, alongside Chinese electromechanical equipment. In addition, there are satellite events, such as a pavilion set up in the Gaoqiao Wholesale Market and an engineering machinery remanufacturing exhibition located at the Central China International Machinery Park in Xiangtan.

Running concurrently with the expo are 30 economic and trade events designed to operationalize the China-Africa “10 Partnership Action Plans.” These focus areas include industrial chain cooperation, green mining initiatives, infrastructure development, traditional medicine exchanges, cultural trade, and youth innovation.

Notable Achievements

The expo has already resulted in the signing of 175 cooperation projects related to the 10 partnership action plans, boasting a total value reaching $11.39 billion. These projects serve as a testament to the commitment shared by participating nations to enhance economic collaboration while addressing mutual interests.

This year's China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo not only highlights the importance of international cooperation amidst global challenges but also sets the stage for sustainable development and modernization in both regions. As it unfolds over the next four days, industry leaders and policymakers alike are eager to capitalize on the vast opportunities for growth and advancement that this gathering presents.

In conclusion, the 4th China-Africa Expo stands as a beacon of collaboration, bringing together diverse voices and innovative solutions, laying the groundwork for future partnerships and enriching the ties that bind Africa and China together in quest of modernization and shared prosperity.