The Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone held the inaugural ceremony of its 5th session on Thursday, 23rd October 2025, at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown.
The establishment of the 5th Chamber marks a historic milestone in strengthening the friendship and cooperation between Sierra Leone and China. It will serve as an important platform to promote trade and investment, foster closer business partnerships, and enhance cultural and social exchanges between the two countries.
During the event, Mr. Du Xinguo, President of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone, stated that the new chamber will carry forward its legacy. According to him, the Chamber will continue to provide business support and services, improve the investment climate, and promote communication and economic cooperation between Sierra Leone and China.
He added that the Chamber will help its members adhere to the laws of Sierra Leone, strengthen communication with local communities, and continue providing support through various initiatives. Mr. Du emphasized that the Chamber will fulfill its duties and called on everyone to contribute to the country’s growth.
Hon. Alpha Sesay, Minister of Trade and Industry, described the event as a symbol of partnership in trade, investment, and industrial cooperation between the two countries. He said these partnerships must translate into factories, skills development, jobs, exports, and shared prosperity.
The Minister noted that the relationship between Sierra Leone and China is not new but built on mutual trust, friendship, commitment, and cooperation. He added that China remains the largest source of direct trade and investment in Sierra Leone both in exports and imports.
“The footprint of Chinese investment is visible across Sierra Leone, from construction, infrastructure, and energy to mining and other sectors,” he said.
Hon. Sesay further stated that the Ministry of Trade and Industry recognizes and appreciates China’s continued support in transforming skills and technology, particularly among the youth. He called on Chinese investors to support agribusiness and food packaging to advance the Feed Salone initiative, promote clean renewable energy to power industrial zones and rural areas, and strengthen tourism and cultural exchange. The Minister also urged China to help transform some of Sierra Leone’s raw materials into finished products.
His Excellency Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, expressed appreciation for witnessing the inauguration of the 5th Chinese Chamber of Commerce and extended congratulations to the newly elected president.
The Ambassador noted that the Chamber was first established in 2004 and has since worked closely with the Chinese Embassy to promote business cooperation between the two countries. He emphasized that Sierra Leone remains one of the most investment-ready countries in West Africa.
He further highlighted that President Bio’s two visits to China last year demonstrate Sierra Leone’s strong commitment to attracting investment. The Ambassador also cited Sierra Leone’s ranking as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, according to the International Peace Index, as a key factor in building investor confidence.
He commended several Chinese companies for supporting local communities through scholarships, the construction of schools and markets, and other corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. He concluded that the Chinese Chamber of Commerce will continue to promote trade and drive economic growth and investment in Sierra Leone.
Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, described the launch of the 5th Chinese Chamber of Commerce as a significant milestone. He noted that the relationship between Sierra Leone and China has spanned several decades and continues to deepen.
“Over the past few years, the government has witnessed great improvements in trade, infrastructure, job creation, manufacturing, and more,” he said.
The Vice President added that the establishment of the Chamber is not only to protect existing businesses but also to attract new ones to Sierra Leone. He encouraged stronger networking among local and international business communities and other chambers of commerce in the country.
He further emphasized the importance of adhering to Sierra Leone’s laws, including the Financial Act, Labour Laws, and Local Content Policy, while maintaining strong corporate social responsibility.
Dr. Jalloh concluded by thanking CRSG and other Chinese companies for their continued support to Sierra Leone through their CSR initiatives.
