Beyond business

Huang Hai, chairman of Hunan Yiwei Agricultural Development Co., Ltd. and the signatory representative for the African side, offered practical advice to young Chinese entrepreneurs entering African markets.

"Africa is not a single market — it has more than 50 countries with different needs," he said. "Young entrepreneurs must listen, learn, and avoid assuming their products will succeed without local adaptation."

Huang stressed the importance of humility and a long-term mindset. "People often say Africa is full of gold, but you can't mine gold without the right tools. Success requires commitment, research, and respect," he added.