The objective of the study is to explore the Chinese presence in Africa and the African presence in China. It is underpinned by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) established between the HSRC and CASS in 2002, which aims to facilitate exchange and cooperation between the two organizations. The objective of the South African part of the study is to examine how participation in Chinese associations (be they cultural, religious, educational, socio-political or commercial), or the lack thereof, would impact on immigrants??? experiences of their adopted ???home??? countries. The study focuses in particular on social interactions and relations, and will draw on individual perceptions of, and reported participation in several local Chinese associations.