CADTCC
Policy Updates
The regional summit set targets for 95 percent broadband coverage by 2030, two million digital-economy jobs, and stronger regional capacity in data governance and artificial intelligence.
The strategy defines data as a strategic public good for transparent governance and sustainable development, with pillars covering governance, legal frameworks, security, and innovation capacity.
The strategy emphasizes ethical, inclusive, and innovation-driven AI development, with responsible governance frameworks for economic, social, and public-sector applications.
At the Addis Ababa dialogue, the African Union identified artificial intelligence as a continental strategic priority and called for a coordinated African AI governance mechanism.
Market Insights
Source: China-Africa Digital Technology Cooperation Center
From May 1, 2026, China implemented zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries with diplomatic relations. In the first month, imports through Guangzhou Customs exceeded RMB 1.63 billion.
Data Insights
Data source: Achievements, Challenges, and Prospects of China-Africa Economic and Trade Cooperation, Contemporary World, 2026 Issue 5
From 2021 to 2025, China's imports from Africa remained above USD 100 billion annually and reached USD 123 billion in 2025.
Data source: Achievements, Challenges, and Prospects of China-Africa Economic and Trade Cooperation
Direct investment remained stable in 2020-2021, declined under external shocks in 2022, and recovered to above USD 3 billion in 2023-2024.
Data source: CAICT Global Digital Governance Blue Book 2025
Global digital services trade reached USD 4.64 trillion in 2024, up 8.3 percent from 2023. Africa's absolute scale remains limited, but its 13.5 percent growth rate led all regions.
Global scale in 2024
Year-on-year growth