China and African countries have an opportunity to deepen trade and technology partnerships through stronger cooperation on standards, particularly in agriculture and electric vehicles (EVs), according to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) President Khaled Soufi.
Speaking at the 2026 China-Africa Standardization Cooperation Conference, Soufi described closer collaboration as a “win-win” opportunity, highlighting the potential for China’s technological innovation to support Africa’s agricultural development and industrial transformation.
The conference brought together approximately 150 representatives from 33 countries and organisations from Saturday to Monday, with discussions focused on advancing commitments made at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit.
Agriculture identified as a priority sector
Soufi identified agriculture as a particularly important area for cooperation, noting that African countries could benefit from access to new technologies, innovation and improved production approaches.
He called for China and African partners to combine their capabilities to modernise agricultural practices and support the development of more productive and sustainable farming systems.
Stronger standards cooperation could also help improve consistency in production, processing and trade, supporting the movement of agricultural products between markets.
Electric vehicles offer opportunities for African markets
China’s electric vehicle industry was another area highlighted by the ISO president.
Soufi said Chinese innovation in EV technology could offer African countries opportunities to explore more sustainable transport solutions, reduce fuel consumption and lower operating costs.
Closer cooperation in this sector could support technology exchange and introduce new approaches to transport and industrial development across African markets.
He emphasised that partnerships should be based on mutual benefits, with China and Africa working together to bring innovation and new technologies to the continent.
Standards cooperation could strengthen trade and industrial development
The conference provides a platform for China and African countries to advance standardisation cooperation across sectors linked to economic development and trade.
For African agricultural producers and exporters, stronger standards alignment could support product quality, market access and competitiveness. In emerging industries such as electric vehicles, cooperation could help facilitate technology adoption and the development of compatible industrial systems.
The discussions reflect the broader potential of China-Africa partnerships to support agricultural modernisation, industrial innovation and more sustainable economic growth.