South Africa, China Move Forward With AI Cooperation Agreement

South Africa and China have agreed to advance a memorandum of understanding on artificial intelligence (AI) cooperation, paving the way for deeper collaboration in research, innovation and applications across education, agriculture and public service delivery.

The agreement followed Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi’s investment-focused visit to China, where he and a high-level delegation met with counterparts in Beijing, Shenzhen and Shanghai. The talks, the ministry said, were aimed at securing support for South Africa’s digital transformation agenda.

Connectivity and Digital Skills
Among the discussions was a proposed satellite broadband initiative with China Satellite Network Company to improve last-mile connectivity in underserved areas. The delegation also engaged the Export-Import Bank of China, highlighting the urgent need for development financing to expand broadband access in disadvantaged communities.

Malatsi, a long-time advocate for affordable smartphones, met with executives from Huawei and Honor to explore ways of supporting South Africa’s “digital for all” campaign. Several partnerships are expected to be announced soon, focusing on affordable devices for learners and entrepreneurs.

Broader Collaboration
The South African delegation participated in a roundtable with the BRICS Institute of Future Networks, where Chinese ICT firms explored cooperation on broadband expansion, device accessibility and skills development. The delegation also attended the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference and a high-level meeting on global AI governance in Shanghai, underscoring the urgency for ethical and inclusive AI.

“These engagements underscore South Africa’s commitment to building international partnerships aligned with its national development priorities,” the communications ministry said. “Through increased investment, shared expertise and digital cooperation, government aims to ensure all South Africans, particularly those in underserved communities, can participate in the digital economy.”

Economic Potential
The GSMA projects that with the right policy support, South Africa’s digital economy could contribute up to 20% of GDP by 2028, boosting education, healthcare and job creation.