China’s Port Development Strategy in Africa: Economic and Geopolitical Implications

By : Gurjit Singh

Page No: 31-43

Abstract
Chinese state-owned companies are involved in 78 African ports as financiers, builders, or operators, representing 33% of the continent’s port infrastructure. This is part of Beijing’s broader strategy to boost trade flows and advance its geopolitical ambitions. China’s presence in Africa’s port sector is unmatched anywhere else in the world. By contrast, Latin America and the Caribbean host only 10 ports built, financed, or operated by Chinese firms, while Asian countries have 24.

Author:
Gurjit Singh was an Indian diplomat for 37 years, with postings in Germany, Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Kenya. An Africa expert, he was Sherpa for the 2nd India-Africa Summit. He writes on India-Africa relations, including his book “The Harambee Factor”. He chaired CII’s Task force on Trilateral Partnerships in Africa and the Sankalp Africa Summit.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/JIOS.2025.33.01.3