Products Imported from China to Somalia

In the calendar year of 2023, China exported goods worth US$1.05 billion to Somalia. Among the main exports from China to Somalia were Woven Fabric of Synthetic Staple Fibers (US$124 million), Coated Flat-Rolled Iron (US$94.2 million), Rubber Tires (US$44.1 million), Other Furniture (US$43.22 million) and Synthetic Filament Yarn Woven Fabric (US$34.57 million). Over the span of 28 years, China’s exports to Somalia have grown steadily at an annualized rate of 35.1%, rising from US$312k in 1995 to US$1.05 billion in 2023.

List of All Products That Were Imported from China to Somalia

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

Trade Agreements between China and Somalia

China’s relationship with Somalia has historically been centered around aid and reconstruction support, reflecting Somalia’s ongoing recovery from decades of conflict. While formal trade agreements are limited, the interaction between China and Somalia involves economic aid, infrastructure development, and humanitarian assistance. Here’s an overview of the key components of their economic relationship:

1. Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreements

China and Somalia have engaged in various forms of economic and technical cooperation aimed at rebuilding Somalia’s infrastructure and boosting its economic recovery. These agreements typically include Chinese grants and concessional loans used to fund projects in areas such as healthcare, education, and public infrastructure.

2. Infrastructure Development Projects

Infrastructure development has been a significant focus of China’s involvement in Somalia. This includes the construction and rehabilitation of roads, hospitals, and public buildings. China’s approach often combines infrastructure development with aid, providing the necessary facilities that help improve living conditions and stimulate economic activities in Somalia.

3. Humanitarian Assistance

China has periodically provided humanitarian assistance to Somalia, particularly during times of drought and famine. This assistance usually comes in the form of food aid, medical supplies, and other emergency relief materials. Such aid is crucial for Somalia, given its challenging humanitarian situation and ongoing recovery needs.

4. Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

While Somalia is not officially listed as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, the country could potentially benefit from broader regional projects under this initiative. BRI’s infrastructure and investment projects in East Africa offer opportunities for enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration, which could indirectly benefit Somalia, especially in terms of improved regional infrastructure and trade possibilities.

5. Trade Facilitation

China is one of Somalia’s significant trade partners, primarily importing fish and livestock while exporting a variety of goods including machinery, electronics, and textiles to Somalia. While there are no specific free trade agreements, the trade relationship is supported by mutual economic interests and China’s broader strategy in Africa, which includes securing resources and developing markets for Chinese goods.

6. Investment in Peace and Security

China’s role in Somalia also extends to support for peace and security measures, recognizing that stability in Somalia is crucial for any economic development and trade relationships. China supports various international efforts and sometimes participates in peacekeeping missions in the region, although its involvement is primarily through political and financial support.