2021-09-30-国际战略研究中心-中国和撒哈拉以南非洲的中小企业_美国的机会之窗（英）_8页_1mb

Chinese Investment Impact: China's significant economic expansion in sub-Saharan Africa, including the Belt and Road Initiative, has increased the region's debt but largely overlooked African small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While providing notable infrastructure investments, Chinese approaches often involve direct government or state-owned firm support, undermining SME development.

United States' Strategic Opportunity: Despite not engaging in direct dollar-to-dollar competition with China, the U.S. has the chance to support African SMEs through targeted blended finance initiatives, technology transfer, and knowledge sharing. Programs like Prosper Africa and USAID's agribusiness focus aim to foster sustainable development and compete by improving market access and financing mechanisms for local enterprises.

Challenges: U.S. endeavors encounter hurdles such as limited financing channels and the need to counter China's expansive influence and economic reach. The rise of Africa's debt—the consequence of Chinese investments—further constrains regional potential for independent growth and affordable access to international financing.

Key Recommendations: Strengthen SMEs via blended finance and catalytic investments, enhance collaboration between governments and private sectors, boost internet and environmental standards, promote systematic technology transfer, and encourage regional digitalization and knowledge sharing—all to counterbalance China's approach and foster inclusive economic growth in Africa.