Economic exchange is the fundamental driver of China’s relations with the Middle East though strategic considerations are no longer absent. China defines the region as “West North Africa” and includes all countries from Sudan to Morocco in it. Trade balances everywhere are in China’s favour. Chinese imports account for 28% of Tunisia’s trade deficit. Smuggled Chinese goods come in a wide range of quality and are very attractive to Tunisians but the problem has little to do with China.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 20, 2019 17:15 UTC