Vitality of China’s post COVID-19 reopening to the world
Friday, January 20, 2023 | 120 Views |
On the continent, which counts China as its largest trade partner, African importers who sell affordable Chinese-made goods were itching to return to China to stock up while many African countries are also hoping to attract Chinese tourists.
The opening of Chinese borders will boost the African economy as Chinese products are affordable. African traders new to the business will be able to go and make their choices physically in China. However, the decision to reopen the borders by China to the international community has attracted some fierce and unwarranted criticism from some influential western media.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...