After Trump's pledge to 'open up' China, low expectations for trade deal
Beijing summit talks ended without a concrete trade pact, analysts note. They warn that the unresolved US-China relationship prolongs uncertainty for Africa's raw-material exporters. China remains Africa's largest trade partner overall.
The Trump-Xi summit closed without producing a concrete trade framework, analysts said. They noted that Washington kept tariff levels intact and Beijing was cautious about responding to calls to 'open up' its market. Only verbal commitments, such as Chinese oil purchases and a Boeing aircraft order, were left on the table.
The stalemate sustains uncertainty for Africa's raw-material exporters. China is a major buyer of copper, cobalt and lithium, while the United States is returning to sub-Saharan supply-chain partnerships. A slowdown in either economy can drive African commodity prices.
At a Kenya investment forum, business leaders called for diversifying trade routes. The African Union commission said its continental free-trade area could be an important buffer next year. The strong US dollar continues to weigh on African debt servicing.
More from Africa
Dress made from 500 loaves of bread stuns African film awards
A Nigerian designer drew attention at the African Movie Academy Awards red carpet in Lagos with a dress crafted from 500 loaves of bread. The piece was conceived as a statement on continent-wide food waste. It drew millions of social media interactions.
Mali junta leader names himself defence minister after predecessor killed
Mali's military junta leader has assumed the role of defence minister after his predecessor, Sadio Camara, was killed in a major offensive by combined jihadist and separatist forces.
UN aid convoy hit by drone strikes in Ukraine's Kherson
A United Nations convoy delivering aid to the Ukrainian city of Kherson was hit twice by drones along the route. UN officials said the strikes have significantly disrupted humanitarian operations in the area.