China’s Soft Power Expansion in Africa through Industrialisation: Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

Industrialisation is believed to be the key to sustainable economic growth on the African continent, and the Chinese government believes its own experience can serve as a useful model for many African countries. Chinese investment in the manufacturing sector in Africa is expected to contribute to export-led economic growth, technology transfer and job creation, among other development-related benefits. It will also provide an opportunity for African economies to be more closely integrated into the global economy, which, in turn, will expand Chinese soft power on the continent. However, this project faces challenges regarding labour relations. Considering that one of the main pillars of soft power is people-to-people relations, the Chinese government’s involvement in Africa’s industrialisation process will require greater commitment from the various agents involved in implementing China’s soft power.