China-Africa photovoltaic exports surge as clean energy demand grows
China-Africa photovoltaic exports of solar panels, cells and wafers increased by 179% in the first half of 2026. Shipments of Chinese solar equipment to the African continent rose sharply compared with the same period in 2025, according to a note by Allison Enck, an analyst at RBC Capital Markets.
The sharp increase in Chinese exports to Africa appears to be linked to the prolonged conflict in the Middle East.
“As the conflict in Iran continues, the countries most affected by rising energy prices are accelerating imports of Chinese clean energy technology, reinforcing the world’s dependence on China even as trade barriers attempt to slow its dominance,” Enck explained.
As early as April, Chinese customs data showed that exports to African countries had already risen 83% year on year, reaching 123,787 tonnes, despite concerns over expected price increases. South Africa and the Democratic Republic of the Congo were among the leading buyers.
The reasons behind the growing adoption of renewable energy and electric vehicles vary from country to country. However, an increasing body of evidence suggests that the conflict involving Iran is playing an important role in accelerating the global energy transition.
Zero-tariff policy boosts China-Africa trade
Export growth has also been influenced by China’s new trade measures. From 1 May 2026, Beijing introduced zero tariffs for an additional 20 African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China. This followed the decision that came into effect on 1 December 2024, when China removed all import duties for 33 of the continent’s least developed countries.
The zero-tariff policy will apply to the 20 eligible African countries through a preferential tariff scheme lasting two years. During this period, China will continue promoting the signing of the China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development agreement.
China-Africa trade reaches a record high
At the end of July, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian announced that China-Africa trade expanded rapidly during the first half of 2026. Total trade reached 1.41 trillion yuan, equivalent to approximately €181.23 billion, the highest level ever recorded for the period.
According to Dalian Daily, citing data from Dalian Customs, total trade volume increased 82.1% year on year during the first six months of 2026.
Exports of mechanical and electrical products from northeastern China to Africa rose 126.8%, including electrical equipment, which increased 108.8%. High-tech exports to African markets climbed 261.4%, while exports of high-end equipment surged 293.7%.
South Africa’s power shortages continue to drive solar adoption
Years of power cuts have encouraged households and businesses across South Africa to invest in clean energy solutions, particularly rooftop solar.
Alfred Schipke, Director of the East Asian Institute at the National University of Singapore, told CNA that China’s leadership in green technologies could help African countries expand electricity access while improving the reliability of power supplies.
“We have seen villages that previously had no electricity. Suddenly, those same villages have solar panels and are no longer affected by rising energy costs caused by the conflict in the Middle East.”
Read also: https://www.rinnovabili.africa/energy/malawi-bess-grid-stability-renewable-energy/