Zolan, a fintech platform enabling seamless cross-border payments for African businesses, is streamlining trade with China by enabling same-day transaction settlements for importers.
Despite China–Africa trade hitting a record RMB 1.41 trillion ($197 billion) in the first half of 2026, importers still struggle with fragmented payment processes, foreign exchange friction, and supply-chain delays.
Yet African businesses sourcing goods from China face multiple payment processes, currency conversion challenges and delays that complicate purchasing and supply-chain management.
For importers, payment delays can affect when suppliers confirm orders, release goods and fulfil shipments. These challenges are particularly consequential for small and medium-sized businesses managing inventory, cash flow and supplier relationships.
To address this, Zolan is providing eligible businesses with a simpler, more flexible way to pay Chinese suppliers through multiple payment methods, including Bank Transfers, Alipay, WeChat Pay and Stablecoin Payments, with fast, same-day settlement.
“Paying an international supplier is a critical part of running a business. It affects how companies source products, manage cash flow and maintain relationships with their suppliers.
‘’We are building Zolan around these realities, starting with helping African businesses pay suppliers in China faster and more efficiently,” said Ebube Ojimadu, Founder & CEO of Zolan and former Head of Product at Quidax.
Building cross-border payments with compliance in focus
Zolan operates through partnerships with a licensed International Money Transfer Operator (IMTO) in Nigeria and a money services business registered with Canada’s Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre (FINTRAC).
“Reliable cross-border payments require more than speed. They also require appropriate controls, clear processes, and a responsible approach to managing financial transactions.
‘’Our compliance framework is an important part of building a service that businesses can use with confidence,” said Victoria Ogunbiyi, Legal and Compliance Officer at Zolan.
Zolan initially focuses on China, with plans to expand into additional trade corridors across Asia and globally as customer needs evolve. The company aims to build financial infrastructure that better supports African businesses engaged in international trade.
