Abstract:
Africa was for a long time considered to be Europe’s backyard. This situation since the turn of the
century has changed considerably. With new actors pursuing their own economic interests, mainly
representing the growing influence of so-called emerging economies, new multipolar realities have
arrived on the continent. Access to and control over natural resources has entered a new stage of
competition among external actors and in their interaction with local elites. Africa has changed as
an arena, and realities are increasingly shaped by Chinese influence too. This overview on recent
contributions to the debate summarises the current assessments of the degree, impact and effects of
the Chinese economic expansion. It then reflects on the potential new scope for cooperation and
development and ends with some conclusions on the possible options and opportunities this
might offer.
