FOCAC 2024

There is a shift underway in China’s Global South diplomacy, as Beijing seeks to compensate for less financial firepower by focusing more on governance and capacity building. 

Taiwan’s last foothold on the continent is built on personalized diplomacy with Eswatini’s absolute monarch.

While FOCAC showcased ambitious plans for mutual economic growth, a more intricate dynamic lies beneath, reminiscent of an octopus’ embrace – tightening, entangling, and often constricting. 

It’s no coincidence that China’s new push in the island nation focuses on energy and digital development.

The South African president’s visit was a microcosm of the priorities in China’s relations with African states.

Despite criticism and skepticism, China seems to be Africa’s last hope, if not its best bet.

Despite the broad scope of topics covered at FOCAC, one crucial area remains notably underrepresented: mining and critical minerals. 

Achieving the target requires more than doubling the current $9 billion in agricultural exports from Africa to China. This is ambitious, but attainable with strategic efforts. 

Despite much talk of a slowdown, there is reason to believe that Chinese loans to African countries will increase in 2024.