China breaks into Malawi’s mining sector with $7 billion investment package
Malawi has struck a $7 billion partnership with China’s Hunan Sunwalk Technology Group to develop a titanium extraction venture and build an advanced mineral processing plant. The agreement highlights Malawi’s pivot toward international collaboration in its natural resources sector and is seen by the government as a critical move to make mining a cornerstone of national economic development.
Signed on June 16, 2025, during the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo in Changsha, China, the deal centers on a large-scale titanium operation in Salima and the establishment of a state-of-the-art processing facility.
Following the announcement, Minister of Mining Dr. Ken Zikhale Ng’oma lauded the agreement as a strategic breakthrough aligned with President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera’s vision to reposition mining as a driver of economic growth. Ng’oma called the memorandum of understanding “a new era rooted in sustainability, innovation, and inclusive development.”
Hunan Sunwalk CEO and Founder Hou Xingwang described the partnership as a milestone for both countries, promising to promote the exchange of capital, technology, and skilled labor. He also expressed interest in expanding the company’s investments into agriculture and other sectors to support Malawi’s wider economic ambitions.
Ng’oma emphasized that the deal goes beyond mineral extraction—it includes technology transfer, rigorous environmental safeguards, and development of local expertise. He also cited the company’s strong track record in Zimbabwe as a reflection of its competence.
Reassuring the public, the Minister noted, “This is the most comprehensive MoU Malawi has signed with a multinational mining firm.” He added that due diligence was completed thoroughly and that the interests of Malawians are fully protected.
Officials from both countries praised the deal as mutually beneficial, with the potential to generate thousands of jobs, improve infrastructure, and stimulate broad economic growth. Exploration and feasibility studies have already begun in Salima District.
As African nations increasingly look beyond traditional Western aid models often tied to political alignment, Malawi is positioning itself to revitalize its natural resource sector through closer ties with China. This agreement may mark the start of a new industrial chapter—one that blends local ambition with global expertise.
Share this content:
