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US officials criticize Chinese trade practices in Africa as Washington seeks economic alternatives

State Department officials point to expanding trade deficits and manufacturing displacement across African nations as the Trump administration promotes U.S. investment.

Updated Aug 27, 2026 · 10:27 UTC1 reports

The short version

  • A top U.S. State Department official criticized Chinese state-subsidized exports for threatening local African manufacturing and creating severe trade imbalances.
  • Data from the China Global South Project indicates Chinese exports to Africa reached $225 billion in 2025 against $123 billion in imports, while overall trade between China and Africa reached $348 billion.
  • The Trump administration is attempting to counter Beijing's commercial footprint, reporting $25.67 billion across 37 closed U.S. commercial transactions since taking office.
  • China continues to expand its market share in key sectors like automotive manufacturing, with Chinese vehicles comprising up to 40% of car sales in South Africa.

Key facts

  • According to the China Global South Project, Chinese exports to Africa hit $225 billion in 2025 while Chinese imports from Africa totaled $123 billion.[Fox News]
  • Data cited by the Office of the United States Trade Representative showed U.S. trade in goods with Africa reached $83.4 billion last year, compared to $348 billion reported by Chinese customs officials.[Fox News]
  • Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia stated that Chinese trade practices and state subsidies are harming local industries and causing unsustainable debt in African nations.[Fox News]
  • The U.S. Bureau of African Affairs reported that 37 commercial transactions worth $25.67 billion have closed since the start of President Donald Trump's second term.[Fox News]
  • Chinese automakers account for between 17% and 40% of vehicle sales in South Africa, where state-owned manufacturer Chery acquired a former Nissan production facility.[Fox News]

What remains uncertain

  • The Chinese embassy in Washington D.C. did not immediately provide comment on the U.S. State Department's characterization of its trade practices.[Fox News]

Sources