China's export growth gives African buyers more choice. The rise in the SCFI shows that the product and its transport still follow two different economies.

Published 7 August 2026

China's exports rose nearly 24% year on year in July, after 27% in June. Imports increased 27.5%. The trade surplus narrowed to $112.5 billion from $125.6 billion in June, but remains formidable.

Growth is concentrated in higher-value products: high technology, vehicles, machinery and electronics. For Central Africa, this supports purchases of equipment, components and vehicles.

The SCFI reached 3,276.14 on 7 August, up 2.2% in one week. Drewry also reported stronger transpacific routes, at $7,893 per 40ft to New York and $5,894 to Los Angeles.

These indices are not Central Africa quotations. They nevertheless show that space, ports and rotations remain tight enough to sustain prices despite abundant industrial supply.

Stronger competition among manufacturers may reduce FOB prices. Freight, surcharges, connections, clearance and inventory financing determine landed cost.

The correct comparison is between complete scenarios: supplier, route, gateway, probable arrival and cost of capital. A factory discount loses value quickly if cargo arrives late or ties up more cash.

Every critical purchase should separate five lines: FOB, ocean rate, surcharges, transit cost and inventory cost. Companies should require rate validity and negotiate surcharge withdrawal conditions.

China will continue to offer immense volume and industrial range. The advantage will go to buyers who convert that abundance into reliable landed cost, not simply those securing the lowest factory price.

Sources: China Customs via AP, Shanghai Shipping Exchange, Drewry, Maersk, MSC and IMF. Cut-off: 10 August 2026, 08:30 WAT.