Chinese officials have issued a formal warning to citizens currently in Eswatini, urging them to leave the southern African kingdom as a precaution against "security risks" linked to cyber fraud and illegal gambling operations. The Ministry did not elaborate on specific incidents but cited the prevalence of such activities as grounds for its directive.
Those advised to depart are encouraged to consider relocating to neighbouring South Africa, where the Chinese government claims safety is comparatively assured. The advisory reflects concerns about the safety of Chinese nationals in the region.
Eswatini stands out as the only African country that maintains formal diplomatic relations with Taiwan, a factor that China disputes. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its sovereign territory and routinely seeks to persuade other states to cut such ties.
The issue has risen to headline attention after a private news outlet in Eswatini reported that 40 Chinese nationals were placed in detention following raids on alleged illicit online gambling centers. Those individuals, along with other foreigners, were initially arrested in March and faced immigration‑related penalties. The High Court later ordered their release, stating that the re‑arrest was unlawful, a stance supported by their legal representatives who highlighted that the men had already paid fines and admitted guilt.
The Eswatini government has yet to respond to these claims, leaving the situation unresolved in a small nation already under diplomatic scrutiny.
Within its advisory, the Chinese foreign ministry emphasised that citizens staying or traveling to Eswatini would face "extremely high security risks" and that any assistance could be delayed. The precise number of Chinese nationals residing or working in the country remains unclear.
China’s stance continues its long‑term strategy to pressure countries into severing diplomatic engagement with Taiwan. The tensions were evident earlier this year when Taiwan’s president, Lai Ching‑te, planned a visit to Eswatini during the 40th anniversary of its king’s accession. The trip was initially cancelled after a series of countries revoked flight permits, but Lai managed to arrive in May through a less publicised route.
Wherever Beijing’s strategic objectives and international law intersect, the advisory illustrates the complex implications for expatriates and bilateral relationships. The move is likely to prompt further diplomatic recalculations, both in Africa and in the broader context of cross‑strait relations.
