African nations are increasingly cosying up to China in a blow to Donald Trump. It is thought that Africa is aligning itself closer to Beijing, with China offering several economic advantages amid the US’s turbulent tariff policy, cutting foreign aid, and tightening visas.
Significant Chinese investment in infrastructure such as roads, airports, and railways is reportedly making Xi Jinping’s nation a reliable partner for many African countries. China also has a ‘Belt and Road Initiative,’ which has helped countries on the continent develop better trade and transport routes. Beijing is also said to be helping with economic growth through investment in areas such as hotels and tourism facilities.
According to Travel and Tour World, Africa’s shift to China is playing a major role in changes to tourism with the US not providing the same level of support in the past.
It reports that improved African infrastructure, including roads and airports, thanks to money from China is making the continent more accessible and appealing to tourists as travel is easier and more comfortable than before.
Countries such as Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa are just some of the nations said to be benefiting from the shift, with the number of Chinese tourists to the continent increasing.
In recent years, Africa has been viewing China as a “beneficial partner”, according to Travel and Tour World.
It reports the Trump administration’s tariff policies are damaging trade between the US and Africa, straining economic ties and also having an impact on tourism projects.
Mr Trump has vowed to put domestic interests at the heart of his time in the Oval Office, with his “America First” policy.
It is also said that the White House’s foreign aid budget cuts are also impacting African tourism and infrastructure projects, while US visa restrictions, for African nationals in particular, have led several countries to seek other international partners.
These factors, it is claimed, have made it difficult for Africa to continue strong tourism links with the US, with more nations turning to Beijing.
Travel and Tour World reports China is more interested in economic growth and infrastructure development in Africa than the US, which is more focused on military and political interests.