Relations between China and Mozambique have entered a new phase following President Daniel Chapo’s visit to Beijing in late April. The development is marked by the strengthening of cooperation across several key strategic sectors, according to Africa Monitor, and involves resource mapping, infrastructure development, industrial processing, market access, financing, and security cooperation.

Identified infrastructure projects include the rehabilitation of National Road 1 and the reconstruction of the Mapai dam in Gaza province. A Special Economic Zone is also planned for Moamba. The zone is anticipated to feature a gas-fired power plant supplied with gas from Pande. The programme also outlines improvements to access routes leading to the Port of Beira and the expansion of the Dondo dry port.

In the extractive sector, Chinese companies have reportedly been conducting studies related to the local processing of mineral resources. Beyond natural gas, China’s interest covers critical minerals, including graphite, lithium, and rare earth elements. 

To support these initiatives, China Eximbank has made available a US$700 million credit line for projects in Mozambique. Funding has been given to feasibility studies for the installation of a gas pipeline and the development of a North–South railway line.

In the defence sector, China is giving support to Mozambique’s defence forces operating in Cabo Delgado, aiming to bolster counterterrorism capacity within the province. Cooperation is expected to encompass training, as well as logistical, communication, transport, and reconnaissance support.

The security situation in Cabo Delgado is closely connected to energy developments in the Rovuma basin. China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) is a key partner of ExxonMobil in the Rovuma LNG project. Furthermore, CNPC controls a subsidiary of China National Offshore Oil Corporation in Singapore, which acts as a major importer of gas produced by the Coral Sul facility, operated by Italy’s Eni.