China expands health silk road with factory launch in Ivory Coast

In October 2024, China announced the completion of the first phase of a new pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in the Ivory Coast, part of its broader strategy to expand its pharmaceutical industry through the 'Health Silk Road.' This initiative is linked to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and aims to enhance medical production in Africa, where there is a significant demand for pharmaceuticals, particularly anti-malarial drugs. President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of promoting pharmaceutical production during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit, highlighting co-investment opportunities between Chinese and African private sectors. The Health Silk Road concept gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic, as China sought to establish itself as a key player in global health. Despite setbacks in its vaccine distribution, China has found more success with its anti-malarial medicines in Africa. Recent agreements, such as Zambia's partnership with a Chinese company to build a cholera vaccine factory, illustrate the growing collaboration between China and African nations in healthcare. Nigeria is also engaging with China to develop a pharmaceutical plant focused on HIV medications, filling a gap left by Western pharmaceutical companies that have suspended operations due to economic challenges. This shift underscores China's commitment to addressing health security in Africa, as it aims to meet the continent's growing pharmaceutical needs. Overall, the expansion of China's pharmaceutical industry in Africa reflects a strategic move to strengthen its influence and support health initiatives in a region facing significant health challenges.