Launched in 2014, it is based at the Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies in Washington, D.C. SAIS-CARI is focused on producing and promoting analysis of the relationship between China and African countries.

It also specializes in conducting evidence-based analysis, fostering collaboration, and training future leaders to understand the economic and political dimensions of China-Africa relations and their implications for human security and global development.

Both of Bräutigam's books use extensive fieldwork and on-the-ground evidence to challenge conventional wisdom on China's relationship with African countries.

SAIS-CARI currently receives support from Carnegie Corporation of New York to develop a database to track Chinese finance and investments in Africa; construct and maintain the CARI website; publish newsletters, working papers, and policy briefs; host conferences, roundtables, and workshops; and fund the CARI fellowship program for scholars, journalists, researchers and practitioners.

In the past, SAIS-CARI has also received support through a grant from the UK's Department for International Development and the Economic and Social Research Council (DFID/ESRC) for a project on "evidence-based analysis of technology transfer, linkages, learning, and spillovers associated with Chinese investment in African manufacturing, agribusiness, and construction industries.