The Burkina Faso-China business forum commenced on November 10, 2026, in Ouagadougou, focusing on leveraging Sino-Burkinabé cooperation for industrial development. The forum brings together investors and economic operators from both countries to explore opportunities for collaboration. Ambassador Daouda Bitié, leading the Burkinabé delegation, outlined the mission's objectives, which include contributing to Burkina Faso's industrial transformation and strengthening economic partnerships between the two nations.
The projects discussed during the forum encompass various sectors, including the establishment of vehicle production chains, such as ambulances and security vehicles, the creation of an industrial complex for glass and glasswork, the equipping of health centers, and the modernization of television equipment. These initiatives build upon the economic meetings held in Beijing in May 2026, which resulted in the signing of five projects between Chinese investors and Burkinabé enterprises.
Chinese Ambassador to Burkina Faso, Zhao Deyong, commended the organization of the forum, highlighting its significance in demonstrating the commitment of both countries to developing their economic partnership. He expressed gratitude to the Burkinabé authorities for providing a favorable business environment for Chinese companies operating in the country. Zhao Deyong also invited investors to explore Burkina Faso's potential, citing President Xi Jinping's vision for Africa as a land of opportunities.
Alassane Ouédraogo, Secretary General of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, presented the sectors that may interest Chinese investors, including agriculture, livestock, mining, agro-food, construction materials, infrastructure, and manufacturing. He emphasized the guarantees offered by the Burkinabé Investment Code, such as equal treatment for investors, property protection, and free capital transfer. Ouédraogo encouraged investors to capitalize on Burkina Faso's economic potential and investment opportunities.
The representative of the Minister of Industry and Commerce assured investors that his department is committed to supporting them in their endeavors through competent technical structures, including the Burkinabé Agency for Investment and Export Promotion (ABIPEX), the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Burkina Faso (CCI-BF), and the Maison de l'entreprise du Burkina Faso. He stressed the importance of job creation, technology transfer, and national skills development.
Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré welcomed the forum, recalling that the reestablishment of diplomatic relations between Burkina Faso and China in May 2018 marked a new era of cooperation between the two countries. He noted that the achievements since the resumption of diplomatic relations provide a foundation for economic actors to build upon. The minister expressed optimism about the potential for strengthened economic ties between Burkina Faso and China.
The business forum provides a platform for Burkinabé and Chinese entrepreneurs to engage in meaningful discussions, identify concrete projects, and establish mutually beneficial partnerships. The event is expected to contribute to the growth and development of Burkina Faso's economy, as well as enhance the country's industrial capacity. Key outcomes of the forum may include increased investment, job creation, and technology transfer.
Key points
- The Burkina Faso-China business forum aims to strengthen economic partnerships and promote industrial development in Burkina Faso.
- The forum focuses on sectors such as agriculture, livestock, mining, agro-food, construction materials, infrastructure, and manufacturing.
- The event builds upon previous economic meetings and agreements between the two countries, including the signing of five projects in May 2026.
