China will no longer be the world's most populous nation. India's population will overtake it this year with an estimated population of 1,42 billion.
It's an epochal transition which speaks to other underlying demographic changes across the world, including the fact that China's population has peaked and is now falling. Meanwhile, the region with the fastest-rising population, from a current base of around 1,4 billion, is Africa.
I have researched the economics of China, and China-Africa relations, for nearly two decades. I've also specifically analysed the political economy of demographic change in China.
On the surface, China losing the 'world's most populous country' crown means nothing for African countries. However, as I outline in my new paper, the transition embodies a number of opportunities and risks for many African countries.
China has been a leading economic partner to the continent for most of this century. Demand for China's manufactured goods is consistent across the continent. It is an especially important import partner for some of Africa's resource-rich countries, such as Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. A slow-down in China's economy, or a shift away from commodity-intensive manufacturing and infrastructure construction, could especially challenge African commodity exporters whose main buyer is China, such as Angola.
So, as China's population declines and ages, there will be direct and indirect repercussions for many African countries. Here are some of the possible implications.
OPPORTUNITIES
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der Farmer's Weekly 26 May 2023-Ausgabe von Farmer's Weekly.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent ? Anmelden
Diese Geschichte stammt aus der Farmer's Weekly 26 May 2023-Ausgabe von Farmer's Weekly.
Starten Sie Ihre 7-tägige kostenlose Testversion von Magzter GOLD, um auf Tausende kuratierte Premium-Storys sowie über 8.000 Zeitschriften und Zeitungen zuzugreifen.
Bereits Abonnent? Anmelden
The oxwagon: a symbol of work, endurance and innovation
The oxwagon has become synonymous with the Great Trek, but few people know that the oxen bartered by the Khoikhoi were actually well-trained animals that responded to voice commands. Lucille Davie reports.
How to treat horses suffering from piroplasmosis
Babesia equi in horses is a notifiable disease in parts of the US, but not in South Africa. It causes fatal anaemia, warns Dr Mac.
All-electric 'Jaecoo's Jimny' is coming to SA!
This cute all-electric off-roader is on its way to South Africa and we've had a quick drive. Here's all you need to know about the Jaecoo J6.
Practical guidelines to prevent stock theft
Laurence Palmer, a security consultant, lists some practical advice that farmers can follow to prevent stock theft.
Understanding the economics of aquaponics.
Leslie Ter Morshuizen explains the economics of aquaponics production and best-grown crops.
Mondi Zimele develops farmers
KZN business uses farming for economic development of province
Township agriculture, rabies campaign launched
In a push to ensure food security in communities, the KwaZuluNatal (KZN) government has implemented a comprehensive agricultural programme designed to stimulate township economies.
Demand for Australian lamb grows
Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) has said that American demand for Australian lamb has risen significantly since December.
KwaZulu-Natal gains 180 agriculture graduates
Joy could be seen throughout the Olive Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), as 180 students, the class of 2023, achieved a significant milestone at a joint graduation ceremony.
Farmers warned not to plant GM maize in Zimbabwe
Vangelis Haritatos, Zimbabwe's deputy minister of lands, agriculture, fisheries, water and rural development, has issued a stern warning to the country's maize growers that no imported genetically modified (GM) maize may be used as seeds.