Beijing, China – China continues to expand its strategic economic presence in Africa. This follows the signing of a massive $900 million agreement by Chinese companies to develop a new port in Angola. As a result, this move strengthens Beijing’s influence in one of the world’s most mineral-rich countries. Furthermore, Beijing is challenging the growing US presence in the strategic Lobito Corridor project.
The port of “Barra do Dandy” reinforces Chinese dominance.
According to the South China Morning Post, Huatong Angola has signed an agreement with the state-owned Barra do Dande Development Society to develop a vital port north of the capital, Luanda. The $900 million project is divided equally between the construction of the port terminal and associated infrastructure. In addition, it includes a 25-year operating concession.
The project aims to establish an export-oriented industrial and logistics hub within the free trade zone. Its first phase is expected to be completed within two years, with full completion anticipated by 2030. The port will have a capacity to handle vessels up to 80,000 tons. Furthermore, it will create approximately 21,000 jobs and generate annual revenues estimated at $10 billion.
This project is part of a broader Chinese strategy to develop African ports. Similar steps have already been taken. For example, Chinese companies secured management rights for terminals at the port of Lobito in 2022. Additionally, the port of Cabinda was upgraded last January. This project strengthens China’s control over supply chains and trade.
Fierce competition with Washington over African minerals
In contrast, the United States is focusing its efforts in Angola on supporting the Lobito Corridor—a railway project linking the port to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia for the transport of copper and cobalt. Investments from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation have totaled $553 million. Furthermore, the project has received support from both the Biden and Trump administrations. It is seen as a crucial gateway for securing supply chains of vital minerals used in advanced technology and defense industries.
Despite growing US interest, analysts point to China’s significant advantage in Africa’s infrastructure sector. This advantage is due to China’s ability to complete projects at a lower cost and with greater speed compared to Western companies. With Angola becoming a global hub of competition due to its location and proximity to copper and cobalt reserves, these developments underscore the race among major powers. They seek to secure vital resources for the future.
