China Launches Africa Digital Technology Center as Zero-Tariff Strategy Deepens Industrial Ties

Highlights

• China launched the China-Africa Digital Technology Cooperation Center at a Hangzhou conference attended by 300+ representatives from 18 African countries.
• Beijing extended zero-tariff treatment to all 53 diplomatically recognized African nations, with imports surging 23.5% year-over-year in May–June.
• China authorized Standard Bank and ICBC to operate an Africa-focused RMB clearing arrangement across 19 countries, easing trade settlement.
• The strategy integrates digital infrastructure, trade access, RMB finance, and industrial investment to build a commercial ecosystem around African critical minerals.
• The DRC illustrates the stakes: Chinese firms like CMOC, Zijin, and Huayou hold key mining positions as the West competes for influence.