E-Commerce to Boost Lusophone Exports to China: Forum Macao
E-commerce is the key to unlocking even greater trade volumes between Portuguese-speaking nations and China, according to Ji Xianzheng, Secretary-General of Forum Macao. Speaking on Wednesday, Ji emphasized that digital platforms offer a unique opportunity to bypass traditional logistics hurdles and reach more Chinese consumers.
The call for digital integration comes as trade between China and the Lusophone world hits record highs. Official data from Chinese Customs Services shows that exports from Portuguese-speaking countries to China rose by 22.1% in the first eight months of 2024, reaching a historic $105.8 billion (€94.6 billion).
Breaking Physical Barriers
Despite the current success, Ji believes there is significant untapped potential. Speaking at the conclusion of a two-week e-commerce colloquium in Macao, he urged member states to “seize the opportunity offered by new internet technologies” to overcome “physical and territorial barriers” that have traditionally limited market access.
The colloquium brought together government officials and entrepreneurs from six Portuguese-speaking nations to study China’s sophisticated digital economy. One attendee, Renato Borges Ferreira Tomé, an analyst from Brazil’s Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, highlighted the need for diversification.
Beyond Raw Materials
While China has been Brazil’s primary trading partner since 2015, Tomé noted that the “export basket” remains concentrated. Iron ore, soy, and meat currently account for more than half of Brazil’s sales to China.
“We must learn to use these platforms to promote small businesses and sectors with enormous potential,” Tomé told Lusa. He identified high-value-added food products, clothing, and footwear as categories that could benefit from a more balanced, e-commerce-driven trade relationship.
Looking Toward 2027
In addition to trade strategy, Ji Xianzheng provided updates on the 7th Ministerial Conference of Forum Macao. The high-level summit is tentatively scheduled for the second quarter of 2027, likely taking place between April and June.
“The exact dates still need to be determined in coordination with the agendas of the leaders of member countries,” Ji said, noting that an official announcement is expected by the end of the year. He added that the Secretariat will focus almost exclusively on preparing for the three-day conference during the first half of 2027.
Since its founding in 2003, Forum Macao has served as a bridge between China and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP). The organization currently includes Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, Timor-Leste, and Equatorial Guinea.
Image: Pexels – Nhựt Nguyên Trần
