Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, launched "two centers and four platforms" on May 11 to facilitate trade coordination and cultural exchange between Guangzhou and Africa, according to the Guangzhou Municipal Commerce Bureau.

The initiative integrates key functions including dispute resolution, legal services, healthcare support, internship programs for African students and youth entrepreneurship incubation, marking a significant step in Guangzhou's efforts to deepen practical cooperation with Africa.

The "two centers," namely the China-Africa Cooperation Guangzhou Exchange Center and a coordination center for China-Africa trade, are located at the Tongli International Clothing Market in Baiyun District.

The Exchange Center focuses on face-to-face dialogue and cultural exchanges. It features a 200-square-meter shared office available free of charge to African diplomatic missions and business communities in China, as well as an 800-square-meter hall for hosting various events.

The coordination center handles community affairs, trade mediation and integrated services, with a focus on dispute resolution in China-Africa trade.

The "four platforms" provide comprehensive support for China-Africa cooperation in Guangzhou. They include professional legal assistance for enterprises from both sides, healthcare assistance for African business travelers and professionals, an internship base for African students, and an entrepreneurship base for African youth.

The launch of the "two centers and four platforms" is a concrete measure by Guangzhou to deepen China-Africa cooperation and improve services at its wholesale markets for international visitors.

The Tongli International Clothing Market in Baiyun District, where the initiative is based, is a core hub for Guangzhou-Africa trade, with 25 professional wholesale markets and more than 20,000 foreign trade merchants. The initiative will provide more convenient services for African business travelers sourcing products from the district's wholesale markets.