African designers took center stage at the 2025 Shanghai Fashion Week, showcasing their vibrant creations and strengthening the cultural and economic ties between Africa and China.
The South African Consulate in Shanghai, in partnership with Brand South Africa and Development Reimagined, hosted a special dinner for the designers who traveled to China to present their work. The event aimed to foster collaboration and open doors for African fashion in the expansive Chinese market.
“South Africa has been China’s number one trading partner in Africa for a number of years, and China is our number one trading country,” said Phuti Tsipa, the South African Consul General in China. “It would bring me great joy to walk the streets of Shanghai and see South African brands in retail stores.”
Tsipa emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and the potential for South African fashion to make its mark internationally. “The relationship between our countries goes beyond trade; it’s about shared experiences and mutual growth,” she added.
Tshepiso Malele, Brand South Africa’s country head for China, highlighted the significance of Shanghai Fashion Week for African designers. “This initiative is a fantastic platform for Brand South Africa to consider from a collaboration perspective,” Malele said. “It helps amplify opportunities for designers from Africa in a market that has welcomed them in a very warm way.”
The participation of African designers at such a prestigious event not only showcases the continent’s creativity but also paves the way for deeper partnerships. Their presence in Shanghai reflects a growing interest in African fashion and culture among Chinese consumers.
“Being here allows us to share our stories through fashion,” one designer noted. “It’s about creating connections and understanding between our cultures.”
This collaboration signals a promising future for African brands seeking to expand globally, with China offering a receptive and dynamic market for innovative designs.
