Adaptation, Prosperity or Precarity: Economic Pathways of Malian Traders in Yiwu, China’s Global Marketplace

Abstract

Economic adaptation to the Chinese market presents major challenges for Malians due to their lack of preparation in terms of skills, motivation and market entry strategy. The study of the economic adaptation of Malian traders is relevant. Firstly, Yiwu is becoming a preferred destination for Malian traders wishing to establish themselves in Asia, to act as a bridge between China and Africa. Secondly, the migrant community perceives Yiwu as the Middle East of China, with a predominantly Muslim population. Data was collected from 20 Malian traders who have set up a business in Yiwu and live there for a qualitative analysis. This groupe of traders were classified into four categories using a typological analysis. The findings reveal that Market Leaders are financially successful and effective at navigating market conditions. Transnational Hustlers are traders who adapted to market conditions, but instead of attaining high local success in Mali, relied on transnational networks. Survivors are malian traders who obtained moderate economic success despite minimal market adaptation. Struggling Traders are those who struggle with both economic outcomes and market adaptation. Future research could explore other cities by carrying out a comparative analysis to identify convergences and divergences withing the Malian diaspora in China involved in commercial activities.