U.S. trade tariffs are accelerating China’s push into developing economies, with North Africa emerging as a key frontier. From a $265 million phosphate plant in Egypt to multi-billion-dollar industrial agreements in Algeria and renewed commercial diplomacy in Libya, China is accelerating its efforts to deepen ties and up its influence across the region. But Beijing’s ambitions are not just economic in nature. With growing economic clout, comes the need to push for military capabilities. With the launch of its first joint air force training exercise with Egypt in April 2025, China is also signaling a strategic military presence in MENA. The long term implications mean that while old influences may degrade, such as France’s degraded relations with the Sahel and Algeria, new influences could reshape the region’s global trade and diplomacy.
________
This analysis is reserved for clients subscribing to The North Africa Journal
Already a subscriber?
Please log in here
Not a subscriber? Take advantage of our lowest subscription rates. Subscribe today
