In this episode of the China in Africa Podcast, hosts Eric Olander and Cobus van Staden focus on Delaware Senator Chris Coons' warning that unless the United States places a greater emphasis on Africa, it will be too late to catch up to the Chinese. The senator added that time is running out both for the U.S. government and for American businesses to get engaged in Africa, given the rapid expansion of Chinese investment across the continent. "China, which has made dramatic inroads across the continent in recent years, may undermine or even counter value-driven U.S. goals in the region, and should serve as a wake-up call for enhanced American trade and investment," said Coons at a press conference following hearings on capitol hill.
Recommendations
- “Senator: US Losing Ground to China on Africa Trade, Investment,” Reuters (via. Voice of America), March 7, 2013
- “Opening Statement: Chairing Senate Foreign Relations African Affairs Subcommittee hearing entitled, “China’s Role in Africa: Implications for U.S. Policy”,” Office of U.S. Senator Chris Coons, November 11, 2011