On September 16th, representatives from Africa, the business sector, and industry experts highlighted that Africa's rich natural resources, growing consumer market, improving investment climate, and recent Chinese government initiatives encouraging SMEs to invest in Africa are driving a surge in Chinese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) entering the African continent. This trend is not only creating new opportunities for economic growth but also promoting mutual benefits between China and Africa. However, experts also pointed out several challenges that Chinese SMEs face when investing in Africa. These include the lack of clear long-term investment strategies, insufficient financial support systems, and rising competition among investors. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensuring sustainable and effective participation of Chinese SMEs in Africa’s development. More and more Chinese entrepreneurs are now looking toward Africa as a promising destination for expansion. According to Wang Chao, the Deputy Director-General of China’s Ministry of Commerce, trade between China and Africa has seen a strong recovery this year. In the first half of 2024, bilateral trade reached $61.2 billion, marking a 65% increase compared to the same period last year. Over the past years, China-Africa economic and trade cooperation has flourished. From 2000 to 2008, trade volumes between the two regions grew at an average annual rate of 33.6%, with trade exceeding $100 billion for the first time in 2008. By 2009, China had become Africa’s largest trading partner. Wang Chao emphasized that the economic relationship between China and Africa is highly complementary. Africa, with its large population and untapped potential, needs access to capital, technology, and expertise. Meanwhile, China offers a vast market and significant experience in industrial development. This synergy creates a solid foundation for collaboration. Traditional industries, particularly those involving manufacturing and labor-intensive production, have significant room to grow in Africa. The continent is rich in natural resources and has a massive consumer base, yet its industrial infrastructure remains underdeveloped. Chinese SMEs, known for their strong production capabilities, are well-positioned to fill this gap. For example, Li Chuanfa, a businessman from Taizhou in Zhejiang Province, established the Egyptian Brothers Footwear Company in 2002. Today, the company holds over 50% of Egypt’s footwear market, demonstrating the potential for success in African markets. As Chinese SMEs continue to explore opportunities in Africa, they bring not only capital and technology but also valuable knowledge and skills that can contribute to the continent’s long-term development. With proper planning and support, this growing partnership has the potential to create lasting value for both sides.