When most people talk about “business ideas,” they speak from theory. What I’m sharing here is different.These are nine business ideas I have personally seen, touched, discussed, and researched not just online, but on the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/blog/is-the-canton-fair-worth-it-an-honest-review-for-africans-and-diaspora-entrepreneurs-from-someone-who-has-been-there-multiple-times/">ground in China</a>, in conversations with factories, and through live sessions with Africans in the diaspora inside the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/community/kuriseyi-premium-community-5977/">Kuriseyi community.</a><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmpk6u4oi6jp2h1qu74kv03ly.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="https://youtu.be/DztGzLOutfY" onclick="window.open('https://youtu.be/DztGzLOutfY', '_blank')">I’ve travelled to China many times, sometimes alone, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://youtu.be/rq5Z9_m-9tQ">sometimes with friends</a>, and now with a growing <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/community/kuriseyi-premium-community-5977/">community of African entrepreneurs </a>who want to change their circumstances. Together, we’ve explored these ideas, discussed the pros and cons, and looked at how each one can work for Africans at home and abroad.Here are the nine business ideas worth paying attention to.<h1 id="dfcb13e0-dd5c-4e91-bb2a-a7207a115ba0" data-toc-id="dfcb13e0-dd5c-4e91-bb2a-a7207a115ba0" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">1. Custom Phone Case Printing</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmovvqnd1b8upf1padkkj2uft.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-details/profitable-custom-phone-case-printing-business-tools-tips-and-marketing-tactics/26362/">Custom phone case printing</a> is one of the simplest and most emotional businesses you can start.People buy custom cases because of:<ul><li>memories</li><li>relationships</li><li>sports teams</li><li>personal identity</li><li>special moments</li></ul>This business works because people love personalization.Why it’s a great idea:<ul><li>You can start it from home</li><li>Works in Africa and the diaspora</li><li>Teenagers can run it as a side hustle</li><li>Low startup cost</li><li>High emotional demand</li></ul>If you want a business that is simple, creative, and profitable, this is one of the easiest places to start.<h1 id="deadcecc-939b-4c4c-8690-3fc0475d304b" data-toc-id="deadcecc-939b-4c4c-8690-3fc0475d304b" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">2. Buying &amp; Selling Remote Controls</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmotxgrn308yeg2qxejnpfx9h.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')">This one shocked me when I first discovered it in China.Remote controls:<ul><li>get lost</li><li>get damaged</li><li>fade over time</li><li>stop working</li></ul>And yet, very few people sell replacement remotes.Why this business works:<ul><li>High demand</li><li>Low competition</li><li>Easy to ship</li><li>Very low cost per unit</li><li>Works in every African country</li></ul>When we researched prices during our<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-library"> community session</a>, the margins were surprisingly good. This is a hidden gem.<h1 id="d1d3225f-9571-4eb3-8e1d-e2d378261d8e" data-toc-id="d1d3225f-9571-4eb3-8e1d-e2d378261d8e" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">3. Plastic Molding &amp; Plastic Products</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmoy332obit9io6pa038gewip.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-details/plastic-molding-opportunities-in-africa-custom-products-ready-moulds-and-smart-use-of-ai/26465/">Plastic molding </a>opened my eyes.Not only did I see plastic products I learned how they are made, how molds work, and how entrepreneurs can create their own designs.Two opportunities exist here:<ol><li>Create your own plastic product</li><li>Buy ready‑made plastic items and resell them</li></ol>Plastic products are everywhere:<ul><li>household items</li><li>storage containers</li><li>kitchen tools</li><li>organizers</li><li>accessories</li></ul>This is a scalable business with global potential.<h1 id="b048da5a-c6fa-49c0-bdab-7fa908b34de7" data-toc-id="b048da5a-c6fa-49c0-bdab-7fa908b34de7" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">4. Corporate Branding</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmp3y03k2083g9opa5nco9tps.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-details/how-to-start-a-corporate-branding-business-without-stock-or-big-investments/26536/">Corporate branding</a> is booming.With modern machines, you can print logos on:<ul><li>shirts</li><li>caps</li><li>mugs</li><li>bags</li><li>bottles</li><li>uniforms</li></ul>You don’t even need to own the machines.You can:<ul><li>take the order</li><li>outsource production to a supplier</li><li>deliver the final product</li></ul>This works perfectly for Africans in the diaspora who want to serve businesses back home.<h1 id="a24339a6-fadc-4b2a-bfea-cd0c18a59cd1" data-toc-id="a24339a6-fadc-4b2a-bfea-cd0c18a59cd1" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">5. Hair Business</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmp3ze7n7033zf1qu9evm6sg3.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')">The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-details/beginners-guide-to-starting-a-profitable-hair-business-in-the-global-market/26543/">hair industry</a> is massive bigger than most people realize.During our community session, we explored:<ul><li>pricing</li><li>suppliers</li><li>quality differences</li><li>packaging options</li></ul>African <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/blog/how-to-talk-negotiate-and-build-trust-with-suppliers-at-the-canton-fair/">entrepreneurs are already buying hair from China</a> and reselling it with great success.Why it works:<ul><li>High demand</li><li>Repeat customers</li><li>Works online and offline</li><li>Easy to ship</li></ul>This is one of the most reliable businesses for Africans worldwide.<h1 id="015dad67-6c7a-4524-8768-e6650fb705c6" data-toc-id="015dad67-6c7a-4524-8768-e6650fb705c6" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">6. Pet Industry Products</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmp40bzo803y2xjpadgpvbccq.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')">Growing up in Africa, I never paid attention to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-details/unveiling-the-pet-toy-market-sourcing-branding-and-global-profit-potential-explained/26545/">the pet industry.</a>But after moving to the UK, I saw how big it really is.People spend money on:<ul><li>pet food</li><li>pet toys</li><li>grooming tools</li><li>accessories</li></ul>The spending is massive.This creates a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://youtu.be/akw2kjNJToo?si=lKDtB9kO6w7RCimS">huge opportunity for Africans in the diaspora</a> to:<ul><li>import pet toys</li><li>supply local shops</li><li>sell online</li><li>distribute to retailers</li></ul>This is a surprisingly profitable niche.<h1 id="4995b67f-984e-46cf-8774-412af1943f66" data-toc-id="4995b67f-984e-46cf-8774-412af1943f66" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">7. Fashion Accessories</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmpfgrjbr176wsipae0mqgan9.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-details/unique-small-item-business-opportunities-discovered-at-yiwu-international-market/26649/">Fashion accessories</a> are essential for:<ul><li>tailors</li><li>designers</li><li>boutiques</li><li>fashion creators</li></ul>But in many African countries, this market is underserved.If you become the supplier of:<ul><li>zippers</li><li>buttons</li><li>sewing tools</li><li>embellishments</li><li>trims</li><li>fashion gadgets</li></ul>…you instantly become valuable.This is a high‑demand, low‑competition business.<h1 id="d9142f87-f65f-4310-be36-e22a25296b23" data-toc-id="d9142f87-f65f-4310-be36-e22a25296b23" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">8. Brick‑Making Machines</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmpfj1hvv2e1grgpadgkh49do.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')">Africa is developing fast.Urban areas and rural areas need:<ul><li>better housing</li><li>new buildings</li><li>modern construction tools</li></ul><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-details/how-brick-making-machines-are-transforming-construction-opportunities-in-africa-and-for-the-diaspora/26668/">Brick‑making machines</a> from China are:<ul><li>affordable</li><li>efficient</li><li>scalable</li><li>in high demand</li></ul><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-library">During our Zoom session</a>, we reviewed different machines and how they operate. This is a powerful business for Africans in the diaspora who want to support construction growth back home.<h1 id="a35bcf21-36fe-4fed-89cf-f1872d390e73" data-toc-id="a35bcf21-36fe-4fed-89cf-f1872d390e73" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">9. Irrigation Pipe‑Making Machines</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmph4lubp4gai4jpahl7n76xv.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')">This is a high‑investment idea but a powerful one.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/video-details/how-to-profit-in-agriculture-without-owning-land-irrigation-and-agri-manufacturing-explained/26670/">Africa’s agricultural sector is growing</a>, and farmers need:<ul><li>irrigation pipes</li><li>water systems</li><li>farming accessories</li></ul>Instead of buying land and farming yourself, you can supply the tools farmers need.We explored machines that produce irrigation pipes, and the demand is huge.This business is perfect for:<ul><li>serious investors</li><li>diaspora entrepreneurs</li><li>people who want long‑term impact</li></ul><h1 id="b3d1cf6f-c779-4916-8ae6-67c3b96b1cad" data-toc-id="b3d1cf6f-c779-4916-8ae6-67c3b96b1cad" style="font-size: 32px; line-height: 1.2;">Final Thoughts</h1><img src="https://ezycourse.b-cdn.net/6131/cmoty55gv0kusvlqy736xa8hj.png" alt="image" containerstyle="width: 100%; height: auto; cursor: pointer; " wrapperstyle="display: flex" data-href="/video-library" onclick="window.open('/video-library', '_blank')">These nine business ideas are not theory. They come from:<ul><li>real travel</li><li>real factory visits</li><li>real conversations</li><li>real community sessions</li><li>real African entrepreneurs</li></ul>If you’re in the diaspora and looking for a business that works, these ideas are worth exploring.Which one stood out to you the most? Drop your thoughts in the comments let’s discuss it inside the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="/community/kuriseyi-premium-community-5977/">Kuriseyi community.</a>

Discover nine practical business ideas for Africans in the diaspora, based on real China sourcing experience, community discussions, and proven opportunities in industries.

9 Profitable Business Ideas for Africans in the Diaspora to Start Anywhere

Explore articles, stories, and insights from the Kuriseyi community. Learn how Africans and the diaspora are connecting, growing, and building opportunities together through shared experiences and practical guidance.

Kuriseyi Blog | Stories, Insights, and Growth for Africans and the Diaspora

Discover inspiring stories and practical insights from the Kuriseyi community. Our blog shares lessons, experiences, and opportunities for Africans and the diaspora to learn, connect, and grow together.

9 Profitable Business Ideas for Africans in the Diaspora to Start Anywhere

9 Profitable Business Ideas for Africans in the Diaspora to Start Anywhere

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