Chinese Vice President Han Zheng has concluded an intensive African tour that covered Kenya, South Africa, and Seychelles from March 24 to 30, in a move reflecting Beijing’s growing diplomatic engagement on the continent and its efforts to strengthen its economic and political presence while deepening strategic ties with African states.
During the tour, the Chinese official focused on trade, influence, and long-term partnerships, sending a clear signal that China is moving forward with expanding its footprint in Africa through integrated economic and political tools, capitalizing on shifts in the global trading system and rising international tensions.
In the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, Beijing announced a notable step by eliminating tariffs on exports from 53 African countries, effective May 1, in a move officially aimed at boosting African exports to the Chinese market.
However, the measure carries broader strategic dimensions, as China seeks to secure supply chains and deepen the integration of African economies with its own, thereby reinforcing Africa’s position within its sphere of trade influence.
In South Africa, Beijing pushed to deepen its partnership with one of the continent’s key regional powers, referring to a “golden era” in bilateral relations. The focus was on enhancing political and diplomatic coordination and strengthening joint action within international institutions, particularly within the framework of the “Global South,” in a way that bolsters these countries’ ability to balance Western influence.
Meanwhile, in Seychelles—a strategically located state in the Indian Ocean—China emphasized consolidating its presence through tangible, fast-implemented development projects, following an approach based on direct engagement and practical cooperation models that strengthen its influence at both the popular and official levels.
Han Zheng’s tour highlighted key pillars, including securing political support for Beijing, expanding trade openness, and promoting a model of “shared development,” as part of a gradual strategy aimed at sustainably expanding and consolidating Chinese influence in Africa.
Amid intensifying global competition—particularly with the United States and Europe—China continues to entrench its interests across Africa through a patient, incremental approach that leverages both economic and diplomatic tools to reinforce its position as a key partner for African countries.