China has instructed its citizens to immediately leave Eswatini, an African nation that remains one of Taiwan's few diplomatic allies, due to alleged security risks. The consular affairs department of China's foreign ministry issued the warning on Tuesday, urging Chinese nationals and institutions in Eswatini to evacuate or relocate to safer areas such as South Africa. The ministry cited "rampant cyber fraud and online gambling criminal activities" as ongoing security concerns. It also warned that those who choose to remain face "extremely high security risks," and that consular assistance may be delayed.

Eswatini, one of 12 countries still recognizing Taiwan despite Chinese diplomatic pressure, responded on Wednesday, stating it "will not be coerced, disadvantaged or destabilised" over its foreign policy choices. The government described China's security risk claims as "unsupported" and "regrettable."

A commerce ministry source in Eswatini noted that over 200 Chinese nationals reside in the country, working in sectors such as textiles, retail, and restaurants.

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen recently met with Eswatini's King Mswati III at the royal palace in Ludzidzini, underscoring the ongoing diplomatic ties. Meanwhile, Taipei has accused Beijing of attempting to disrupt the visit by pressuring neighboring countries to revoke flyover permits.

China has also excluded Eswatini from a zero-tariff policy extended to other African countries on May 1, reflecting strained relations.

Sources