Logistics Give China An Early Advantage in the Vaccine Distribution Competition in Africa

China is moving faster to distribute vaccines in Africa and the Middle East than competitors in Europe and Asia, thanks to its early start in building out a sophisticated logistics network with hubs in both Addis Ababa and Dubai, according to a spokesman for Ethiopian Airlines.

“The other manufacturers like Pfizer from the U.S., from Europe, from Canada and different (vaccine) manufacturers are still waiting to arrange their logistics requirements… but so far we already have some commitments to transport from China to different (African) countries,” said the unnamed spokesman for the airline in an interview with South Africa’s state broadcaster SABC News. 

  • Get a daily email packed with the latest China-Africa news and analysis.
  • Read exclusive insights on the key trends shaping China-Africa relations.
  • Full access to the News Feed that provides daily updates on Chinese engagement in Africa and throughout the Global South.

China, Africa and the Global South... find out what’s happening.

Subscribe today for unlimited access.

What is The China-Global South Project?

Independent

The China-Global South Project is passionately independent, non-partisan and does not advocate for any country, company or culture.

News

A carefully curated selection of the day’s most important China-Global South stories. Updated 24 hours a day by human editors. No bots, no algorithms.

Analysis

Diverse, often unconventional insights from scholars, analysts, journalists and a variety of stakeholders in the China-Global South discourse.

Networking

A unique professional network of China-Africa scholars, analysts, journalists and other practioners from around the world.