Peer-Reviewed Article October 31, 2010
From Guangzhou to Yiwu: Emerging facets of the African Diaspora in China
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Published in: International Journal of African Renaissance Studies - Multi- Inter- and Transdisciplinarity
Publisher: Taylor & Francis • South Africa • 1818-6874 • 1753-7274
Abstract
Yiwu, known as the largest commodities market in China and in the world, is becoming the destination of choice for Africans doing business in China. In this article we compare how Africans are received in Yiwu and Guangzhou, home to the largest community of Africans in China. We argue that the relatively negative reception of Africans in Guangzhou, compared to the more efficient and civil treatment of Africans in Yiwu, is one reason why Yiwu is eclipsing Guangzhou. How the state interfaces with Africans on migration matters has consequences for broader Africa-China relations.