The United States is actively working to counter China's expanding economic influence in Africa, which a senior State Department official describes as a "shock wave" negatively impacting the continent's economies. China's trade practices, characterized by state-subsidized exports and a significant trade imbalance, are reportedly stifling local manufacturing and creating unsustainable debt in African nations.
Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia told Fox News Digital that China's overcapacity of exports "threaten[s] to displace and preventing the development of local industries." He added that China's economic engagement has often led to "economic coercion." In 2025, Chinese exports to Africa were valued at an estimated $225 billion, while imports from Africa reached only about $123 billion, according to the China Global South Project.
Garcia stated that the U.S. government intends to provide "credible alternatives" through public and private financing in areas that enhance American security and prosperity. The U.S. is committed to an open investment environment while also strengthening its ability to protect against threats associated with foreign investment.
Elaine Dezenski, senior director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, noted that while China is a major trading partner for many African countries, this relationship does not necessarily help those nations move up the value chain. Instead, some African countries are increasingly exporting raw materials to China and importing finished goods from China, hindering their own manufacturing potential.
China has funded infrastructure projects across Africa, such as roads and bridges, often insisting that Chinese companies perform the construction. In South Africa, Chinese vehicles now account for a significant portion of car sales, and Chinese automakers are acquiring local manufacturing plants. Analysts suggest that China is offering competitive pricing and better vehicles, pushing out Western competitors. Frans Cronje, president of the Washington-based Yorktown Foundation for Freedom, observed that China's industrial influence is rapidly changing market dynamics.
The U.S. has reported progress in its own commercial engagements in Africa, with 37 transactions totaling $25.67 billion closed since the beginning of President Donald Trump's second term. However, China's overall trade with Africa significantly surpasses that of the U.S., which reached $348 billion in the same period compared to the U.S. bilateral trade valued at $83.4 billion last year.
Assistant Secretary Garcia emphasized the U.S. commitment to diversifying and securing the global market for critical minerals and rare earths. "We will work with African partners to address risks from non-market actors and ensure supply chain security," he said, adding that the U.S. is using diplomatic and economic tools to promote fair and transparent markets.