In a major move underscoring Africa’s growing importance in the global electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem, China’s state-owned automaker Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) has launched its Aion electric vehicle models in Ethiopia, while parallel talks with Nigerian officials aim to deepen cooperation in critical mineral extraction.
The rollout in Addis Ababa marks the debut of GAC’s Aion S, Aion Y, and Aion LX models in Ethiopia — a country actively shifting its mobility strategy toward greener alternatives. The Ethiopian Investment Commission welcomed the move, citing recent policy reforms aimed at attracting clean energy investors and scaling electric mobility infrastructure.
Zeleke Temesgen, Commissioner of the Commission, confirmed that the government is prioritizing foreign direct investment in sustainable transport. “We view electric vehicles not just as a climate solution but as a future economic pillar. This partnership with GAC signals Ethiopia’s readiness,” he said.
GAC has partnered with Huajian Group, a long-time Chinese manufacturer operating in Ethiopia, to handle distribution and after-sales support. Discussions are underway for local assembly operations and training programs that could boost technology transfer and job creation in the country’s automotive sector.
Meanwhile in Nigeria, Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai met with Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, to explore new agreements on access to the country’s rich but underexploited reserves of lithium, cobalt, and nickel — all essential components of EV batteries.
Minister Alake acknowledged China’s strong presence in Nigeria’s mining industry but emphasized the need for transparent and law-abiding investments. “China remains a critical partner, but we must move toward sustainable, well-regulated operations that benefit Nigerian communities and industry alike,” he said.
Nigeria’s push to diversify from oil by unlocking its vast mineral wealth aligns with China’s need to secure stable supplies of critical materials amid global EV demand. Recent enforcement efforts against illegal mining underscore Abuja’s commitment to formalizing the sector and ensuring mutual benefit.
Both countries are key members of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), a platform that has facilitated technology transfer, infrastructure development, and industrial growth across the continent. The Ethiopia-Nigeria developments fit squarely within China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to expand global trade routes and secure raw materials for its rapidly growing industries.
For Africa, these partnerships represent a significant opportunity — not just in mineral exports but in long-term industrial development. Local assembly of EVs, skills training, and strategic mineral policies can allow African countries to move beyond raw resource extraction and become active participants in the global clean energy transition.
As Chinese firms like GAC, BYD, and Nio explore African markets, the continent’s response will determine whether the EV revolution leads to dependency or empowerment. With the right regulations, investment frameworks, and industrial planning, African nations like Ethiopia and Nigeria are well-positioned to lead in both mobility innovation and mineral sovereignty.