China is set to expand its role in Sudan’s maritime sector through a new agreement to develop and modernize the country’s ports, in a move that includes upgrading port infrastructure, rehabilitating equipment, and establishing new seaports, as Beijing continues to deepen its economic presence in mineral-rich Sudan amid the ongoing conflict.
Sudan’s state-owned Sea Ports Corporation signed a memorandum of understanding with ChinaOn Monday, Sudan's state-owned Sea Ports Corporation signed a memorandum of understanding with state-owned China Harbour Engineering Company to develop and modernize Sudan's ports. According to Sudan's state news agency, the agreement covers the rehabilitation of port infrastructure and equipment as well as the construction of new seaports.
The agreement is the latest sign of expanding Chinese engagement with Sudan. On June 28, China agreed to cancel four interest-free loans to Sudan worth around $50 million. The two sides reviewed progress on Chinese-funded projects, including a roughly $66 million slaughterhouse project in West Omdurman and a separate $31 million grant supporting Sudan’s energy, water and agriculture sectors.
Over the past month, Sudanese officials held a series of meetings with Chinese counterparts, including representatives from China National Petroleum Corporation, the China-Africa Development Fund and the Chinese Communist Party, and Sudan participated in Belt and Road and Global Development Initiative forums in China.
Sudan is seeking to revive an economy devastated by three years of war. Since April 2023, the Sudanese Armed Forces, which backs Sudan’s government, has been fighting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. The United Nations Development Programme estimates the conflict wiped out nearly $6.4 billion in GDP in 2023 alone. Harbour Engineering Company, a state-owned firm, to enhance the efficiency and capabilities of Sudanese ports, according to the Sudan News Agency.
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