African emerging markets are being used as beta testing grounds for new products by global companies, like Chinese firms did with smartphones and are now doing with cars.
Companies like Tecno, Infinix, and Itel gained market share in Africa by listening to consumer needs and adapting their products accordingly, such as addressing unreliable power supply, dual SIM cards, and optimized cameras for darker skin tones.
Currently, brands like BYD, Chery, and Haval are utilizing African markets to test electric and low-cost vehicles, learn from consumer preferences, road conditions, and market dynamics to refine their offerings before expanding globally.
The article emphasizes the need for Africa to focus on mastering the basics, owning the manufacturing stack, and gradually moving up the value chain to compete globally in building and innovating products.