African Countries with the Highest Debt to China

African Countries with the Highest Debt to China

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China has become one of Africa’s key financial partners, lending billions to support large-scale infrastructure projects across the continent. From roads and railways to energy and ports, Chinese loans have played a major role in Africa’s modernization efforts.

However, this financial relationship has also raised concerns about rising debt levels and long-term economic sustainability. As of 2022, African countries owed China nearly $90 billion, making it the continent’s largest bilateral creditor.

Also Read : African Countries with the Highest and Lowest Debt to the IMF 2025

Based on data from the World Bank's International Debt Statistics and Boston University’s Global Development Policy Center, here are the top 10 African countries with the highest debt to China:

1. Angola – $21.0 billion

2. Ethiopia – $6.8 billion

3. Kenya – $6.7 billion

4. Zambia – $6.1 billion

5. Egypt – $5.2 billion

6. Nigeria – $4.3 billion

7. Côte d'Ivoire – $3.9 billion

8. Cameroon – $3.8 billion

9. Republic of the Congo – $3.4 billion

10. South Africa – $3.4 billion

These figures reflect total external debt to China as of 2022.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why do African countries borrow from China?
China offers fast, large-scale funding with fewer political conditions than Western lenders.

2. What is the concern with Chinese debt?
Critics warn of unsustainable debt levels and economic overdependence.

3. Are Chinese loans transparent?
Many Chinese loan terms are not publicly disclosed, raising transparency concerns.

4. Is Chinese debt helping or harming Africa?
It helps fund infrastructure but poses risks if debt becomes unmanageable.

5. Will the debt keep rising?
Yes, unless borrowing slows or repayment improves.