China's relations with African states have attracted much attention in recent years. Between the 1990s and today, China has developed into one of the most important players in the world system. During this period China has also grown to be the largest trading partner for all African states. There are diverging opinions as to whether China, in pursuit of natural resources, is taking advantage of the need for investments and infrastructure in African states, or if they are enabling possibilities of realistic and equitable development in African states. This study examines the compatibility of Sino-African trade with African guidelines for pan-African ownership, sustainable development, and human rights, by analyzing the African Union Agenda 2063 and the African Charter of Human and People’s Rights.