There has been a lot of research and criticism into the nature of Chinese investment in African countries in the past ten years. This Special Issue brings together a set of papers which highlights not only some (fair) criticisms but also the developmental benefits that such FDI has had in some African countries. In particular in relation to job creation at the local level. The variety of investments reveal, contrary to popular 'belief', that Chinese FDI in Africa is not just about resource extraction although this is an important element. The papers also provide insight into particular aspects of Chinese FDI and hopefully will inform the readers and generate new questions for further research in this field.