Chinese labour practices in six southern African countries

While China is Africa’s largest trading partner, the abusive labour practices among Chinese companies are a cause for concern.

About this monograph

This monograph analyses Chinese companies’ labour practices in six southern African countries: Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, Lesotho, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It explores employment patterns, wage agreements and working conditions, and also reflects on the relationships between Chinese companies and trade unions, as well as the effectiveness of mechanisms to prevent and settle labour disputes in the selected countries. The study focuses on the construction, mining, textiles and fisheries sectors. It presents key findings and recommendations aimed at improving labour relations.

About the authors

Sergio Carciotto is a Senior Researcher consulting on migration, displacement and refugee rights.

Ringisai Chikohomero joined the ISS in 2018 as a Research Consultant in the Southern Africa project in Pretoria.

Research support in Angola and the DRC was coordinated by Paulo CJ Faria (Ambuila – Pesquisa e Produ..o Cient.fica) and Pascal Sundi Mbambi (Universit. Catholique du Congo). They contributed to the chapters on Angola and the DRC, respectively.