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This article explores the foundation and evolution of the diplomatic and commercial relations between China and three Maghreb countries (Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia). It shows the predominant role of Algeria in Chinese relations with the Maghreb. It questions the roots of these relationships with multiple interests and puts them into perspective by describing the shift from ideologically driven relations to business-driven relations. Chinese presence in the Maghreb is part of its global strategy via mechanisms such as the forums (the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation and the Sino Arab Cooperation Forum) and projects such as the Belt and Road Initiative. However, it is operationalized at the bilateral level.