CHINA ADVISES CITIZENS TO LEAVE ESWATINI OVER SECURITY RISKS

China has advised its citizens in Eswatini to leave the southern African country, citing what it described as serious security risks linked to cyber fraud, gambling-related crime and other criminal activities.

In a security advisory, China’s Foreign Ministry urged Chinese nationals already in Eswatini to relocate to relatively safer countries, including neighbouring South Africa. The ministry warned that those who choose to remain or travel to Eswatini could face “extremely high security risks” and possible delays in receiving consular assistance.

China-Taiwan Relations in Focus

Eswatini is the only African country among the 12 countries that maintain official diplomatic relations with Taiwan, which Beijing regards as part of China. The latest advisory comes amid longstanding tensions between Beijing and Taiwan over diplomatic recognition. In May, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te visited Eswatini after an earlier planned trip was cancelled following reports that nearby countries had withdrawn overflight permissions. Beijing criticised Lai’s visit, while Taiwan accused China of attempting to disrupt the trip.

Chinese Nationals Detained

The advisory also comes after reports that 40 Chinese nationals have been detained in Eswatini since July. According to reports, the group was arrested during investigations into alleged illegal online gambling operations. Their lawyers later argued that the detainees had already paid fines for immigration-related offences and that their subsequent re-arrest was unlawful.

The Eswatini government has not publicly commented on the matter. China’s latest warning adds another layer to its relations with Eswatini, as Beijing continues to press countries to end official ties with Taiwan. Earlier in 2026, China removed tariffs on imports from African countries but excluded Eswatini from the arrangement.