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This article examines China’s growing relations with Mozambique, to derive insights for wider arguments regarding China’s aims and impacts in Africa, and the trajectory of its growing global influence. It is argued that details of the China-Mozambique relationship support positions that: China’s engagement with Africa is overwhelmingly economic and diplomatic, rather than military and strategic; that even in a non-oil producing country Chinese aid and investment is driven by acquisition of natural resources; but that, contrary to assertions China is not interested in Africa’s long-term development, China is attempting to foster general economic growth and social stability, and to maintain a positive public image. The Mozambican case shows a clear tendency towards extractive industries being the primary driver of engagement – but the author argues that the diversified strategy of the Chinese government to build infrastructure, improve agriculture, and win the political approval of both elites and the populace seems to point to a long-term approach to promoting Mozambican economic growth.