By: Mohamed Sahr
In a bid to strengthen commercial ties and promote economic development, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh on Thursday,23rd October 2025, officially inaugurated the 5th Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone at the Bintumani Conference Hall in Freetown.
The event marks a significant milestone in Sierra Leone-China relations, bringing together17 Chinese companies committed to supporting the country’s economic growth and deepening trade cooperation.
Vice President Jalloh described the launch as timely, noting that the Chamber’s primary goal is to promote and protect Chinese businesses operating in key sectors such as manufacturing, mining, and construction.
He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to people-centered development, emphasizing that over the past seven years, the administration has worked hard to maintain economic stability.
“Since 2023, Sierra Leone’s foreign currency market has been relatively stable, with a reduction in inflation and interest rates,” the Vice President said.
Dr. Jalloh added that the government’s proactive measures have created a more conducive environment for business growth, leading to increased tax revenue and job creation.
He urged the new Chamber to attract additional investors, build stronger networks with Sierra Leonean businesses, and enhance collaboration with other chambers of commerce. The Vice President also encouraged the Chamber to prioritize capacity building for local staff, compliance with financial and labor laws, and support for local content policies.
Applauding several Chinese enterprises including Leone Rock Metal Group, manufacturers, mining, and construction companies for their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, he commended their efforts in improving community welfare across the country.
Vice President lauded the Chamber’s potential to promote professional learning, attract investment, and strengthen partnerships between local and international businesses. He hailed the occasion as “a milestone in Sierra Leone-China relations and a step toward building a stronger, more inclusive economy that works for all.”
His Excellency Wang Qing, the Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, highlighted the robust growth in bilateral trade, noting that trade volume reached $1.8 billion last year, with Chinese investments exceeding $2 billion. “China supports 30% of global trade,” he said.
He commended Chinese enterprises for their role in local employment, infrastructure development, and socio-economic progress.
Ambassador Wang urged the new chamber to operate in full compliance with Sierra Leone’s laws, respect cultural differences, and promote social responsibility. He acknowledged Chinese companies for their contributions to job creation, infrastructure development, and skills training, expressing confidence that the new Chamber would further strengthen economic ties and mutual prosperity.
Mr. Du Xinguo, President of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to strengthening economic ties and fostering mutual growth between the two nations.
Speaking on behalf of the new executive, he expressed deep gratitude to the Government of Sierra Leone, the Chinese Embassy, and all partners who supported the Chamber’s establishment.
Under the guidance of the Chinese Embassy’s Economic and Commercial Office, he said the Chamber would serve as a platform for information exchange, business cooperation, and professional support, helping members expand their operations and contribute to a stronger business ecosystem in the country.
Mr. Du assured that member companies would strictly adhere to Sierra Leone’s laws and regulations, uphold responsible business practices, and invest in community development and employment creation. Highlighting the Chamber’s vision of “win-win development,” he said the organization would expand partnerships with other business associations and international chambers to promote shared prosperity.
Hon. Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, Minister of Trade and Industry commended the enduring partnership between Sierra Leone and China, underscoring the vital role of Chinese investment in advancing trade, industry, and job creation.
He encouraged Chinese businesses to expand into renewable energy and manufacturing, sectors that can drive economic diversification and reduce the country’s dependence on imports.
Minister Sesay reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a favorable business environment, announcing upcoming initiatives such as a Manufacturers Conference to address challenges and enhance collaboration.
He concluded by expressing confidence that the partnership between Sierra Leone and China will continue to promote sustainable development and shared prosperity.
