China’s annual Two Sessions – the meetings of China’s top legislature, the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the top political advisory body, the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee – serve as a key window into the policy direction of the world’s second largest economy. Decisions and policy announcements made in Beijing will not only shape the lives of 1.4 billion Chinese but also have far-reaching global implications.
As a government work report delivered at the National People Congress highlighted China’s plan for high quality development and high-level opening up, what does that entail for Ethiopia and other African nations, particularly in terms of economic development, industrialization and people-to-people exchanges? Having lived and worked in Ethiopia and several other African countries for years, and now continuing my research in African studies, I would like to share some insights.
China’s high-quality development, a model for Africa industrialization reference
China’s pursuit of high-quality development offers invaluable experience for Ethiopia and other African countries. In its journey towards industrial maturity, China has implemented a series of effective policies. For instance, in the development of its manufacturing sector, China established well-planned industrial parks with complete infrastructure, efficient supply chains, and supportive policies. These parks attracted significant domestic and foreign investments, promoting industrial agglomeration and technological innovation.
Ethiopia, with its ambitions in industrial and commercial development, can draw on China’s experience. In sectors like textiles and garment manufacturing, which Ethiopia is eager to develop, China’s approach of integrating research and development, production, and marketing could serve as a model. By developing similar industrial parks, Ethiopia could create numerous job opportunities for the local youth while attracting Chinese enterprises to invest. The China-Ethiopia Economic and Trade Zone is a prime example, where Chinese investment has brought advanced production lines and management experience, gradually helping Ethiopia build a more complete industrial chain.
China’s expanding market generates opportunities for African high quality products
China’s efforts to boost domestic consumption and expand market access have opened significant opportunities for Ethiopian and other African products. China’s tariffs-free policy for countries including Ethiopia, has greatly promoted African exports. Ethiopian coffee – renowned for its rich flavor – has seen a substantial increase in its presence in the Chinese market. With the market access, Ethiopian coffee can enter China at a more competitive price, not only promoting Ethiopian exports while catering to China’s growing demand for high-quality coffee.
Moreover, China’s continuous expansion of market access across various fields, such as agricultural products, handicrafts, and processed foods, provides a vast market space for African countries. African cashews and other products are gradually making their way into Chinese supermarkets and e-commerce platforms. This not only diversifies the choices of Chinese consumers but also provides African producers with stable export channels, promoting their economic development.
More direct flights would promote more youth and business exchanges
The Chinese market holds great significance for Ethiopian Airlines. Direct flights between China and Ethiopia have not only strengthened people-to-people exchanges between the two countries but also played a crucial role in trade and economic cooperation. These flights have reduced travel time and costs, making it easier for Chinese tourists to visit Ethiopia and for Ethiopians to travel to China for business, study, and tourism.
Furthermore, Ethiopia’s position as a transportation hub in Africa makes these direct flights a springboard for China-Africa exchanges. Chinese businessmen can easily transfer through Ethiopia to reach other African countries, facilitating trade and investment across the continent. Likewise, many Chinese enterprises engaged in infrastructure construction in Africa and African enterprises focusing on Chinese market utilize Ethiopian Airlines to transport personnel and materials. This has not only contributed to the development of Ethiopia’s aviation industry but also enhanced the overall economic and trade exchanges between China and Africa.
China’s development, as demonstrated at the Two Sessions, brings a series of opportunities for China-Ethiopia and China-Africa cooperation. By leveraging these opportunities, both sides can achieve mutual benefits and jointly promote economic development and social progress.
The author is a CGTN Digital reporter, a non-resident research fellow of the Institute of African Studies at Zhejiang Normal University
BY SHEN SHIWEI
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 12 MARCH 2025
