Beijing, China – 18 December 2025
The Minister of Commerce and Industry of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Gamal Mohamed Hassan, officially opened and delivered a keynote address at the Somalia–China Investment and Trade Forum held in Beijing. The forum was organized by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Somalia in China and formed part of the official events commemorating the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Somalia and the People’s Republic of China.
Hosted at the Four Seasons Hotel in Beijing, the forum brought together more than 500 participants representing over 300 international companies. These included firms from the Global Fortune 500, major business associations, leading investors, and senior officials from China’s Ministry of Commerce. The strong participation reflected the growing interest of Chinese government institutions and private sector companies in exploring investment opportunities in Somalia.
In his opening remarks, Minister Gamal Mohamed Hassan emphasized that strengthening economic and trade cooperation with China is a strategic priority clearly embraced by the Government of Somalia. He noted that Somalia has entered a new phase characterized by stability, reconstruction, and sustained economic growth.
The Minister highlighted in detail the vast investment opportunities available in Somalia, particularly in fisheries, agriculture, livestock, renewable energy, mining, economic infrastructure, and maritime trade. He underscored that Somalia possesses the longest coastline in Africa and abundant natural resources that remain largely untapped.
Furthermore, the Minister reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government of Somalia to translating investment commitments into tangible results. He stressed that the Government has established robust legal, policy, and security frameworks to safeguard investors’ interests. He also noted that Somalia is implementing the National Transformation Plan (NTP 2025–2029), which focuses on modernizing infrastructure, expanding productive sectors, and creating a transparent and enabling business environment.
Minister Gamal Mohamed Hassan highlighted that trade between Somalia and China has increased by 24 percent in the past year alone, demonstrating the positive trajectory of bilateral cooperation. He further noted the steady growth of Somalia’s exports—particularly fish, livestock, sesame, and other natural products—and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral trade to ensure it is balanced, sustainable, and capable of generating employment and income opportunities for the Somali people.
