| Summary: | The Africa Digest is a fortnightly e-newsletter scanning the key trends in the macro-environment and industry to promote knowledge and raise understanding of business in Africa. This issue explores: 1. Trends of China in Africa - This edition views Africa as an emerging battleground in China’s economic war with the USA. China continues to play a major role in Africa’s infrastructure development and project financing, focusing on support for the development of renewable energy, the digital economy, and manufacturing. The report also highlights resistance to the evolving Chinese approach to contract terms and debt governance.
2. Trends in Fintech and Mobile Money - Fintech and mobile money are not passing fads. They signal an increasingly strong trend that has raised the level of financial inclusion throughout the continent. Mobile technology itself is not only used in extensively in the financial services industry, but also in industries such as agriculture and health, to name but two. However, foreign investors have recognised the investment potential for fintech and mobile money in Africa and are keen to tap into this massive opportunity.
3. Linking Africa to the World: Russia in Africa - High-ranking Russian officials, including Foreign Minister Lavrov, visited African countries all over the continent over the past few years. Russia is staging a comeback after having withdrawn from Africa after the shutdown of the former Soviet Union. Russia’s interests cover a number of sectors, such as nuclear energy, platinum, nickel, and even arms manufacturing.
4. Trends for Start-ups and SMEs - Start-ups and SMEs in Africa drive economic growth and job creation. With a large population, set to double by 2050 to 2.4 billion, and a growing middle (or consumption) class, there are many emergent business opportunities throughout African economies. Even cursory investigation indicates that the continent is largely “empty” of large MNC presence. This report addresses the growing visibility of start-ups and SME’s in Africa, with some taking up the slack caused by MNC-absence.
5. Southeast Asia in Africa - The Vietnam Experience - ASEAN countries are reaching out to Africa. The more prominent players include Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. The economic activities between the countries on the African continent and ASEAN members span a wide spectrum of sectors. Vietnam, although not a new entrant, has steadily upgraded its footprint on the continent.
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