China Topples France to Become Top Trading Partner of Senegal in 2024
According to figures released by the Senegal National Agency for Statistics and Demographics (#ANSD), imports from China progressed by 8.3% to reach FCFA 848 billion (€ 1.3B) while imports from France slipped by 17% to FCFA 725 billion (€ 1.1B) for the year 2024. This reversal of fortune for France marks a historical turning point as France has long been the top supplier for its former colony.
China has undertaken several flagship projects in Senegal including the Blaise Diagne International Airport, Dakar-Diamniadio Highway, and the Dakar Regional Express Train (TER). In addition, SinoHydro built a 20-MW solar farm in 2021. Senegal opening on the Atlantic Ocean makes it a potential gateway for trade and investment into West Africa and #ECOWAS states.
In terms of goods, China exports to Senegal include textile and clothing, electronics, machinery, chemicals and construction materials. With unfavorable conditions from the West, China has no choice but to intensify its commercial activity with other parts of the world in an attempt to compensate.
| Rank | Country | Trade Volume FCFA Billion |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 848 |
| 2 | France | 725 |
| 3 | Russia | 579 |
| 4 | UAE | 409 |
| 5 | Belgium | 398 |
| 6 | India | 330 |
| 7 | Nigeria | 315 |
| 8 | Turkiye | 239 |
After China and France, the other top trading partners of Senegal are: Russia (FCFA 579 billion), UAE (FCFA 409 billion), Belgium (FCFC 398 billion), India (FCFA 330 billion), Nigeria (FCFA 315 billion) and Turkiye (FCFA 239 billion). The figures indicate a diversification of economic partnership and that there is still room for improvement for the #AfCFTA with the first African partner, Nigeria, only appearing at 6th position.
Overall in 2023, total imports slid slightly by 0.6% to FCFA 7,161 billion. On a positive note, the trade deficit of Senegal has decreased to FCFA 3,252 billion, a reduction of FCFA 731 billion compared to 2023.