As the world’s trade routes shift and global supply chains find new rhythms, African businesses are stepping onto one of the biggest stages in international commerce — the China International Import Expo (CIIE).
For many African small and medium enterprises (SMEs), this isn’t just an exhibition; it’s a gateway to the world’s largest consumer market and a rare opportunity to compete on a global scale.
From Trade Partners to Growth Partners
China’s relationship with Africa continues to deepen, with bilateral trade reaching nearly USD 295.6 billion in 2024. Yet while imports from China dominate the balance sheet, the 2025 CIIE represents a chance for African exporters to shift the narrative — from being consumers of Chinese goods to becoming suppliers to Chinese households and industries.
With zero-tariff access now extended to all African nations except eSwatini, doors have swung wide open for local producers to enter the Chinese market more competitively than ever. This move signals a new era of mutual opportunity, where African SMEs can scale, diversify, and build long-term buyer relationships across Asia.
Standard Bank’s Gateway Strategy
At the center of this transformation stands Standard Bank Group, whose Africa–China Trade Solutions (ACTS) program is helping businesses convert possibility into measurable progress.
“Platforms like CIIE are where growth becomes tangible,” says Bill Blackie, CEO of Business and Commercial Banking at Standard Bank. “Our role is to help African entrepreneurs position themselves strategically, secure the right partnerships, and participate meaningfully in global trade.”
Through its deep partnership with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) — the world’s largest bank — Standard Bank has made it possible for African clients to transact directly in Chinese Renminbi (RMB), streamlining trade payments and reducing currency conversion risks.
This collaboration isn’t just financial; it’s strategic — enabling African exporters to think bigger, move faster, and connect directly with Chinese distributors and consumers.
Success Stories Brewing Across the Continent
The results speak volumes. In 2024, with guidance from Standard Bank and Wesgro, the Western Cape’s trade and investment agency, two South African rooibos tea producers turned their debut CIIE appearances into multimillion-rand contracts, with projections to quadruple within five years.
Similarly, Ugandan coffee exporters landed major deals after showcasing their products in Shanghai — proving that when African quality meets Chinese demand, powerful trade stories are born.
These aren’t isolated wins; they are signals of a broader shift. Through events like CIIE, African businesses are learning to decode international markets, identify consumer preferences, and leverage exposure into long-term, sustainable growth.
Turning Vision into Value
Standard Bank’s ACTS initiative goes beyond trade finance. It offers a full suite of solutions — from forex risk management and certification advisory to matchmaking exporters with the right buyers.
In 2025, the bank is supporting over 20 African clients at CIIE, featuring a diverse portfolio that includes cashews, shea butter, wine, coffee, meat, sesame, cassava, fruits, and flowers. These exports aren’t just commodities — they’re cultural ambassadors representing the richness of African enterprise.
“Access to capital and risk management tools bridges the gap between spotting an opportunity and actually seizing it,” Blackie explains. “Our focus is to help African SMEs turn exposure into execution.”
Driving Sustainable Growth Beyond Trade
In 2024 alone, Standard Bank enabled R100 billion in Africa–China trade flows and mobilized R33.6 billion in sustainable finance to build logistics and export infrastructure. This isn’t just about profit; it’s about paving the roads — literally and figuratively — that will carry Africa’s goods to the world.
The bank’s involvement at CIIE extends beyond commercial transactions. Through bilateral forums and advocacy sessions, Standard Bank is pushing for systemic reforms that reduce Africa’s cost-to-trade, strengthen supply networks, and help local SMEs become part of the global value chain.
This effort aligns with South Africa’s G20 Presidency and the B20 process, ensuring that Africa’s voice remains central in global trade discussions.
A New Chapter in Africa’s Global Story
As African entrepreneurs step onto the CIIE stage, they aren’t just showcasing products — they’re showcasing potential. From agri-processing to renewable energy, from luxury teas to fine wines, they represent a continent that’s not waiting for opportunity but creating it.
Blackie sums it up perfectly:
“Africa’s entrepreneurial spirit, paired with access to the world’s largest markets, is the key to unlocking the continent’s full potential. Standard Bank’s mission is to make that connection real — to help Africa not just join the global conversation, but lead it.”
