China

The United States Trade Representative has initiated formal investigations into Nigeria and 59 other economies over alleged failures to prevent forced labour imports, while China announced zero-tariff access for 53 African nations starting May 2026.

Beijing has declared Iran's appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as supreme leader an internal matter, opposing threats against the new leader amid Israeli military warnings and US military action.

The UN Security Council remains divided as oil tankers avoid the Strait of Hormuz and African leaders warn of far-reaching consequences for global trade and security following military strikes on Iran.

As Ghana dispatches a minister to secure the release of nationals caught in Ukraine's conflict, the mission unfolds against a backdrop of escalating US-China nuclear tensions and renewed diplomatic efforts to end Europe's deadliest war since 1945.

Zimbabwe's suspension of raw lithium exports has triggered significant price increases on Chinese futures markets, demonstrating the southern African nation's growing influence over global battery metal supply chains.

The Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce engaged Korean embassy officials to expand exhibition participation, while the High Court ordered Chinese investment firm Livetouch to pay outstanding transport debt, highlighting evolving foreign investment dynamics.

Nigeria's state oil company has signed a tripartite agreement with Chinese firms for gas infrastructure development, while international traders increasingly partner with indigenous operators amid improved regulatory environment.

Global energy consumption is projected to expand modestly in 2026 while China's financial sector undergoes state-directed mega-mergers, according to Economist Intelligence Unit analyses covering key economic sectors.