African regional blocs must address China - Africa trade imbalances: Economist

The Weekend View

President Cyril Ramaphosa was THIS WEEK on a State Visit to China, before he attended the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit which drew around 50 African heads of State to Beijing. Several trade deals were clinched between South Africa and China during the tour. During the summit Chinese President Xi Jinping, pledged $50 billion (over R900 billion) in investment and assistance packages to the African continent over the next three years. Some economists however believe instead of waiting for Chinese handouts, African countries should showcase and position their own industrialization roadmap to China and seek support to address the China- Africa trade imbalances. Udo Carelse spoke to Chifipa Mhango, Chief Economist at the Don Consultancy Group....