China’s Economic Statecraft in Africa

Africa, preeminent recipient of Chinese aid, has benefited greatly from Chinese low-rate loans, infrastructure projects and trade relations. Consequently, these massive investments cause analysts to question whether this Chinese expansionism constitutes a new form of colonialism.

The author examines the different economic intervention tools of Beijing, the Chinese capital’s economic engagement in the continent, and the long-term strategy of China in Africa. He also addresses approval ratings of Chinese engagement by both the elites and the general population of Africa.