The African Energy Chamber (AEC), a prominent advocacy group for Africa's energy sector, has unveiled plans to establish an office in Shanghai's Lin-gang Special Area by 2025.

A delegation from the AEC headquarters in South Africa recently visited Shanghai and met with Lin-gang Special Area Administration officials to discuss their entry into the area. This initiative will position AEC as the first African energy organization with a physical presence in Lin-gang.

Beini Da, representative of AEC China, expressed enthusiasm about this strategic move, noting Africa's shift from a resource-exporter to a digital sovereignty-focused continent, with Chinese technology playing a pivotal role.

She picked Lin-gang Special Area due to its favorable policies, including pilot initiatives on cross-border data and the innovation corridor between Lin-gang and Zhangjiang — another sci-tech hub in Shanghai. Additionally, Lin-gang's pioneering position aligns well with Africa's booming market.

The Shanghai office will create a fast lane for China-Africa technology investment. Core businesses will encompass African project roadshows in China, energy technology compliance, and cross-border talent training. Aspiring to be the linchpin of China-Africa energy cooperation, the office will offer one-stop services like policy interpretation, project matchmaking, and risk management for Chinese enterprises.

AEC has also inked a memorandum of understanding with Tima Networks Co Ltd to launch a fund focusing on China-Africa technology investment with an initial capital of 300 million yuan ($41.17 million), empowering Chinese tech firms in Africa's digital infrastructure, smart energy, and cross-border internet of things projects.