By Aminata Turay
The Hon. Vice President of Sierra Leone Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to people-centred development as he officially inaugurated the 5th Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown.
Addressing business leaders, diplomats, and government officials, the vice president described the event as a “revitalised symbol of partnership” between Sierra Leone and China, one built not only on trade but also on shared prosperity and community growth.
Highlighting the human impact of Chinese investment in the country, the Vice President praised companies such as Leo Rock, CRSG, and Ganfeng Lithium for their corporate social responsibility efforts.
He noted that schools, health centres, and scholarships funded by these companies have transformed lives in districts like Port Loko, Makeni, and Freetown. “When our young people see these companies in their communities and are given the opportunity to learn and work with them, that is the best gift we can give,” he said, stressing that true progress lies in empowering people through education, jobs, and local industry.
The Vice President further called on the newly inaugurated Chamber to deepen collaboration with Sierra Leonean enterprises and uphold local content and labour laws to ensure fair participation in the nation’s economic growth.
He lauded the Chamber’s potential to promote professional learning, attract investment, and strengthen networks among local and international businesses. Declaring the event officially open, the Vice President hailed it as “a milestone in Sierra Leone-China relations” and a step towards building a stronger, more inclusive economy that works for all.
The President of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone, Du Xinguo, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to strengthening economic ties and fostering mutual growth between Sierra Leone and China.
Speaking on behalf of the new executive, he expressed sincere gratitude to the Government of Sierra Leone, the Chinese Embassy, and all partners who have supported the Chamber’s establishment. He emphasised that under the guidance of the Chinese Embassy’s Economic and Commercial Office, the Chamber would build on its legacy with renewed determination, serving as a platform for information exchange, business cooperation, and professional support to help members expand their operations and contribute to a stronger business ecosystem in the country.
The Chamber President further assured that member companies would continue to strictly abide by Sierra Leone’s laws and regulations while upholding responsible business practices. He pledged that the Chamber would encourage its members to deepen collaboration with local enterprises, promote employment, and invest in community development initiatives.
Highlighting the Chamber’s vision for “win-win development”, he noted that the organisation would expand partnerships with other business associations and international chambers to strengthen trade and promote shared prosperity.
Concluding his statement, he expressed optimism that the new Chamber would become a dynamic force for economic growth, social inclusion, and lasting friendship between the people of China and Sierra Leone.
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Hon. Alpha Ibrahim Sesay, commended the strong partnership between Sierra Leone and China, highlighting Chinese investment’s key role in boosting trade, industry, and job creation.
He urged Chinese businesses to expand into areas like renewable energy and manufacturing to support Sierra Leone’s economic growth and reduce import dependence.
The minister also emphasised the government’s commitment to creating a favourable business environment and announced upcoming initiatives, including a Manufacturers Conference to address challenges and enhance cooperation. He expressed confidence that this collaboration will drive sustainable development and shared prosperity.
The Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, HE Wang Qing, highlighted the strong growth in bilateral trade, noting that the trade volume reached $1.8 billion last year, with Chinese investments surpassing $2 billion. He also praised Chinese companies for their significant contributions to local employment and socio-economic development across the country.
The Ambassador called on the Chamber to continue operating in compliance with Sierra Leonean laws and respect cultural differences while promoting social responsibility. He acknowledged the efforts of Chinese companies in community projects such as job creation, infrastructure development, and skills training. Looking forward, he expressed confidence that the Chamber would enhance cooperation, facilitate information exchange, and further strengthen economic ties between China and Sierra Leone for mutual benefit.
The event drew to a close with Vice President Juldeh Jalloh, the Ambassador of China, the Chamber President, and other key stakeholders officially unveiling a plaque to mark the inauguration of the 5th Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sierra Leone.
