Products Imported from China to Benin

In the calendar year of 2023, China exported goods worth US$1.49 billion to Benin. Among the main exports from China to Benin were Motorcycles and cycles (US$64.2 million), Other Large Iron Pipes (US$62.7 million), Light Pure Woven Cotton (US$59.1 million), Synthetic Filament Yarn Woven Fabric (US$52.57 million) and Coated Flat-Rolled Iron (US$49.92 million). Over the span of 28 years, China’s exports to Benin have grown steadily at an annualized rate of 12.3%, rising from US$65.5 million in 1995 to US$1.49 billion in 2023.

List of All Products That Were Imported from China to Benin

The table below presents a comprehensive list of all commodities that were exported from China to Benin in 2023, categorized by product types, and ranked by their trade values in US dollars.

Tips to use this table

1. Identifying High-Demand Products: Analyze the top-ranked products to identify which items have the highest trade values. These products are likely to be in high demand in the Benin market, presenting lucrative opportunities for importers and resellers.
2. Niche Market Exploration: Explore products with significant trade values that may not be commonly known. These niche products could represent untapped market segments with less competition, allowing resellers and importers to carve out a unique position in the market.

Last Updated: April, 2024

Note #1: The HS4 code, or Harmonized System 4-digit code, is part of the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS). It’s an internationally standardized system for classifying goods in international trade.

Note #2: This table is regularly updated on an annual basis. Therefore, we encourage you to revisit frequently to access the latest information regarding trade between China and Benin.

Trade Agreements between China and Benin

China and Benin have established a cooperative relationship that emphasizes development aid, economic investment, and infrastructure projects. This partnership is crucial for Benin, facilitating its economic growth and infrastructure development, with China playing a significant role as a development partner and major investor. Here’s a look at some key aspects of their relationship:

1. Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) – Signed in 1985, this treaty was designed to encourage and protect mutual investments between the two countries. The BIT provides a framework that safeguards investments and ensures fair treatment of investors, which is essential for fostering a stable investment environment and enhancing economic cooperation.
2. Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement – Under this framework, China provides economic assistance to Benin, which has included grants and concessional loans. These funds are primarily used for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and government buildings, which are pivotal in supporting Benin’s long-term development objectives.
3. Health and Agricultural Cooperation – China and Benin have agreements focusing on health and agriculture, which involve Chinese aid in these sectors. This includes sending Chinese medical teams to Benin and providing agricultural technology and expertise to boost local agricultural production and food security.
4. Participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) – Benin is an active participant in FOCAC, through which China engages with multiple African nations. This multilateral platform has facilitated various projects in Benin, including educational scholarships, training programs for Beninese officials, and additional infrastructure funding.
5. Debt Relief Initiatives – As part of broader Chinese debt relief efforts in Africa, Benin has occasionally benefited from debt forgiveness, which helps alleviate its debt burden and supports economic stability.
6. Cultural and Educational Exchanges – These programs aim to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation. China offers scholarships to Beninese students and engages in cultural exchanges to promote people-to-people bonds.

The relationship between China and Benin is characterized by a focus on development and infrastructure alongside significant investment in health and education, which aligns with Benin’s strategic development goals and China’s interest in supporting African nations economically and politically.