CIFTIS 2025: Africa’s growth beyond borders 🌍
Under the theme "Embrace Intelligent Technologies, Empower Trade in Services," the 2025 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing, Chinese mainland, put a spotlight on how Africa is forging new paths in global commerce, culture, and innovation. From coffee beans to AI solutions, entrepreneurs and officials from Namibia, Rwanda, and beyond shared their experiences.
Voices from the Ground 🎤
Emma Mutijima, Rwandan coffee exporter and CEO of Phoenix Ventures Limited, says:
“This is my second CIFTIS visit. Last time, I met partners who helped introduce Rwandan coffee to China. Now, it’s not just about buyers—it’s about building sustainable supply chains that uplift farmers and communities back home.”
Emma adds: “We’re shipping more than coffee beans—we’re sending stories of resilience and African pride. Events like CIFTIS let us build bridges instead of just closing deals.”
Titus Nampala, CEO of the Namibia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlights regional strategy:
“How do we connect our culture? Africa must shift from consuming to producing. By learning from our Chinese mainland partners, we can ensure technology transfer, boost sustainability, and strengthen food security.”
Key Takeaways & Trends 🔍
- Cultural Exchange as Strategy: Sharing heritage and identity adds value beyond products. ☕🎭
- Moving up the Value Chain: Local processing of coffee, minerals, and agri-products builds stronger brands.
- Tech Transfer & Innovation: Partnerships focus on digital solutions, green energy, and smart services. 💡🔧
- Tourism & Integration: Easier visas and joint marketing can make Africa a top travel destination. ✈️🏞️
- Co-creating Solutions: African innovators co-design AI and e-mobility for local contexts.
Looking Ahead 🚀
Participants agree: Africa can “leapfrog” development stages by using its youth, resources, and strategic alliances. As Titus Nampala puts it, “We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Let’s start with the end in mind and build our future.”
From coffee farms to tech hubs, CIFTIS 2025 shows that Africa–Chinese mainland ties are evolving into a sustainable, innovation-driven partnership. 🌱🤝
Reference(s):
CIFTIS 2025: How Africa benefit from China's trade in services
cgtn.com
