In Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on May 14, 2025, U.S. Ambassador Troy Fitrell announced the U.S. Commercial Diplomacy Strategy for Africa. This new initiative aims to strengthen U.S. trade relations with African nations, focusing on increasing American exports and investments on the continent.
However, many observers note that this move comes as the U.S. attempts to regain influence in Africa, where China's presence has been significant and growing for decades. China has established deep economic ties with African countries through investments in infrastructure, trade, and development projects, becoming a prominent partner in the region.
Ambassador Fitrell acknowledged Africa's vast potential as the world's largest untapped market, projected to have 2.5 billion people by 2050, with over $16 trillion in purchasing power. Despite this, U.S. exports to Sub-Saharan Africa remain around 1 percent of total American trade.
Critics argue that the U.S.’s previous policies have prioritized aid over direct economic engagement, leading to missed opportunities. The new strategy emphasizes trade over aid, encouraging American businesses to invest in Africa and proposing reforms to make African markets more accessible to U.S. companies.
Meanwhile, China has been active in Africa for decades, investing in large-scale infrastructure projects like the Tanzania-Zambia Railway and initiatives under the Belt and Road Initiative. The partnerships between China and African nations have focused on mutual development, with China providing support without imposing political conditions.
As the U.S. unveils its new strategy, questions arise about how it will compete with China's established relationships in Africa. Many African nations value partnerships that respect their sovereignty and contribute to their development goals.
For the U.S. to build stronger ties with Africa, it may need to adopt a more collaborative approach that emphasizes mutual respect and shared benefits. The evolving dynamics highlight the importance of genuine partnerships in fostering sustainable development across the continent.
