In recent years, Chinese-made buses have performed exceptionally well in the African market, becoming a highlight of China-Africa economic and trade cooperation. Since entering the African market in 2004, Chinese bus brands, represented by Suzhou King Long Haige buses, have exported over 14,000 buses to 40 African countries. These buses have gained widespread recognition among African consumers due to their excellent cost-performance ratio and efficient after-sales service system.
In terms of export destinations, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Côte d’Ivoire are the main countries receiving Chinese buses in Africa. In 2022, the export volumes to these three countries were 378, 321, and 301 buses respectively, accounting for 13%, 11%, and 10% of the total export volume of medium and large buses to Africa. Algeria is also an important destination for Chinese bus exports. It is reported that the total export volume of Chinese-made buses to Algeria has surpassed 9,000 units, with a market share of 90%, making them the leading bus brand in the country. These buses are widely used in Algeria’s urban public transportation, tourism, and school bus services, providing reliable transportation solutions for local residents.
In addition to new bus exports, the export of second-hand buses is also growing rapidly. In September 2024, the first batch of second-hand buses from Mianyang, Sichuan, officially set sail for Africa, marking a significant step in the expansion of China’s second-hand vehicle market in Africa. The vehicles are primarily sold to countries like Nigeria, providing affordable transportation options for local people. The development of the second-hand vehicle business not only helps ease the transportation pressure in some African countries but also broadens the overseas market channels for Chinese automotive companies.
In recent years, Chinese bus manufacturers have also enhanced their competitiveness in the African market through local operations. For example, some companies have established assembly plants or service centers in Africa, offering more convenient spare parts supply and maintenance services. This localized strategy not only reduces operational costs for companies but also creates numerous job opportunities locally.
The successful export of Chinese buses has not only driven the modernization of public transportation in Africa but also injected new vitality into China-Africa cooperation. In the future, China and Africa are expected to deepen their cooperation in the transportation sector, working together to achieve mutually beneficial and win-win development goals.
