Products Imported from China to Botswana

In the calendar year of 2023, China exported goods worth US$236 million to Botswana. Among the main exports from China to Botswana were Electrical Transformers (US$16.3 million), Telephones (US$12.8 million), X-Ray Equipment (US$8.92 million), Large Construction Vehicles (US$8.06 million) and Video Displays (US$7.61 million). During the last 22 years the exports of China to Botswana have grown steadily at an annualized rate of 13.4%, rising from US$15 million in 2000 to US$236 million in 2023.

List of All Products That Were Imported from China to Botswana

The table below presents a comprehensive list of all commodities that were exported from China to Botswana 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 Botswana 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 Botswana.

Trade Agreements between China and Botswana

China and Botswana have established a relationship that emphasizes development assistance and investment rather than formal trade agreements. Their cooperation has increasingly focused on economic projects, infrastructure development, and cultural exchanges. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of their economic and diplomatic interactions:

1. Diplomatic Relations Establishment (1975) – Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1975, China and Botswana have engaged in various forms of economic cooperation, with China becoming one of Botswana’s important partners in development.
2. Bilateral Investment Treaties (BIT) – While a specific BIT between China and Botswana is not highly publicized, such agreements typically aim to promote and protect investments between the two countries, facilitating a stable environment for investors and enhancing economic cooperation.
3. Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreements – These agreements provide a framework for China to assist in infrastructure projects in Botswana. This includes the construction of roads, bridges, and public buildings, enhancing Botswana’s development prospects and strengthening bilateral ties.
4. Development Assistance – China provides considerable development assistance to Botswana, including grants and concessional loans used for various public welfare and infrastructure projects. This assistance is crucial for Botswana’s efforts to modernize its infrastructure and expand its public services.
5. Educational and Cultural Exchanges – Scholarships and educational exchanges are integral to their relationship. China offers scholarships to Botswana students and engages in cultural exchanges to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.
6. Trade Facilitation – Although not covered by a specific trade agreement, trade between the two countries includes the export of diamonds and other minerals from Botswana and the import of machinery, electronics, and consumer goods from China. The trade relations are underpinned by mutual interest in accessing new markets and resources.
7. Health Cooperation – China has contributed to health sector projects in Botswana, providing medical equipment and expertise, which helps in improving healthcare services and capacity in Botswana.

The relationship between China and Botswana is marked by China’s role in supporting development projects that contribute to Botswana’s economic growth and diversification efforts, rather than traditional free trade agreements.