A child stands among the African people waiting to enter a church on Yide Road in Guangzhou. Photo: CFP

Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, has become the Asian center with the largest African population, according to an investigation by Guangzhou University.

Guangzhou has attracted more than 200,000 Africans, about half of the city's total expatriate community, to live in the city. This was in large part due to its tropical climate, abundant business opportunities and openness, according to the academic report, which focused on the situation facing foreigners in Guangzhou and the policies that apply to them.

The report said that the African community is mainly there to do business with local manufacturers and traders, and sell commodities to Africa.

Despite the vitality they have brought to Guangzhou, authorities say the African community has created problems for the police. The investigation found that most of the African people are staying in the city illegally, and this is due to illegal entry, or overstaying or working illegally.

Drug-related crimes are commonly reported to be occurring among the African community. In December 2012, Guangzhou police detained more than 300 Africans for drug trafficking.

In order to better regulate the foreign community, Guangzhou has tightened a crackdown on underground agencies which provide foreigners with fake invitation letters and work certificates.

Guangzhou authorities have also been advised to establish and maintain close contact with business chambers and leaders of the African community, as most African people are closely connected with expatriates from their own countries living in Guangzhou.

Global Times

African women walk in the rain in Guangzhou streets. Photo: CFP

An African woman enjoys the services of a beauty parlor. Photo: CFP

People attend church services on Yide Road in Guangzhou. Photo: CFP

A Chinese man whose African friend had been detained for drug-related crimes holds a banner at a church on Yide Road, trying to find the family of the man. Photo: CFP