South Africa’s Chinese community goes back generations, from long-established families to newer arrivals who came to trade, work or study. Associations, chambers of commerce and Chinatown are the quickest way for newcomers to find people from home, practical information and familiar food. This section lists organisations, places and services, so you can find the right group for your hometown, trade or city, and know where to turn when you need consular help.
Start here
- Chinese associations and chambers of commerce: the main organisations by region and trade.
- Cyrildene Chinatown and the China malls: where to eat, shop and get things done in Johannesburg.
- Chinese supermarkets and groceries: where to buy Chinese sauces, vegetables and household goods in the main cities.
Key things to know
- Consular districts. China’s embassy is in Pretoria, with consulates-general in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban. Passports, notarial services and other consular work are handled by district; see the embassy and consulates page.
- Consular emergency hotline. In an emergency, call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs global consular hotline on +86-10-12308.
- Johannesburg’s Chinatown is in Cyrildene. Derrick Avenue in Cyrildene, in the east of Johannesburg, is lined with Chinese restaurants and shops and is a regular stop for newcomers. It is busiest at weekends and in the run-up to festivals.
- Festivals bring people together. Chinese associations around the country usually hold events around Chinese New Year, which falls on 6 February in 2027.
Related sections
For everyday practicalities beyond the community, see Daily life. For getting help in an emergency, see Safety & security.
