“South Africa ranks highest among models for Malawi’s future development, according to Malawians’ perceptions of international relations expressed in a recent Afrobarometer survey. The United States is the second-most-popular model and is regarded as the most influential country in Malawi. While acknowledging China’s influence on their country, seven years after the establishment of diplomatic ties, Malawians are almost equally divided as to whether China’s economic development assistance does a good job in meeting Malawi’s development needs. Appreciation of China’s infrastructure and business investments reflects Malawi’s needs in these areas, while the quality of Chinese products is the most damaging factor for China’s image.”
