As China deepens its ties with Africa, Belgian companies are being told they have a “unique opportunity” to position themselves within this trilateral relationship.
The message is: Growing investments across the African continent may open doors for companies from Belgium to participate in Africa’s economic transformation.
Belgium’s historical ties with Africa are deeply rooted in its colonial past, particularly in mid-African countries Congo, Rwanda and Burundi.
Despite the often controversial nature of its colonial rule, Belgium retains strong diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties with many African nations.
Today, these relationships have evolved, focusing on development aid, business cooperation, and cultural exchange.
The Brussels-based Belgian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce says that Belgian companies seeking to capitalize on the growing China-Africa relationship should focus on the following 4 “key” sectors:
- Infrastructure and construction
With China’s heavy investment in Africa’s infrastructure through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), there are “substantial” opportunities for Belgian companies with expertise in construction, civil engineering, and logistics, says the BCECC. Areas like roads, bridges, railways, and port development align well with Belgium’s established capabilities. Belgian firms could collaborate as contractors or subcontractors, particularly in ports, where Belgium’s expertise in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, one of the world’s largest ports, forms a competitive advantage.
- Renewable energy and clean technology
As African countries are pushing for sustainable development and green energy, there is a growing demand for renewable energy projects. Belgian companies with strengths in solar, wind, and hydro energy, as well as energy efficiency technologies, can partner with Chinese and African stakeholders to offer green solutions. Expertise in waste management, water purification, and environmental sustainability is also valuable, especially as African nations prioritize eco-friendly infrastructure.
- Healthcare and pharmaceuticals
Africa faces significant healthcare challenges, and as China continues to expand its medical investments on the continent, Belgian pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers can play a key role. Belgian expertise in biotechnology, medical equipment, and pharmaceuticals can help address Africa’s healthcare gaps, especially in disease prevention, medical supply chains, and hospital infrastructure development.
- Agriculture and Agri-Tech
Agriculture is a major economic sector for many African countries. Belgian companies with advanced agricultural technologies, such as precision farming, irrigation, and food processing, can “collaborate with Chinese projects to enhance agricultural productivity in Africa, helping to meet the continent’s food security challenges,” says BCECC.
By focusing on these sectors, Belgian companies can effectively tap into the dynamic China-Africa relationship, driving both economic growth and sustainable development.
To successfully engage in China-Africa projects, Belgian firms are advised to focus on building strategic partnerships with Chinese companies and governments, leveraging their strengths in innovation and technology.
“By positioning themselves within this growing economic corridor, Belgian companies can enhance their global presence while contributing to Africa’s development,” says the BCECC.
