China has begun applying a new zero-tariff policy on imports from African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, opening the way for a broader range of African products to enter the Chinese market.
The measure, which took effect on May 1, applies to 53 African countries and expands a previous arrangement that covered 33 least-developed African economies. The policy is part of Beijing’s wider effort to deepen trade ties with the continent.
Shortly after midnight on May 1, customs officers in Shenzhen, in southern China’s Guangdong province, cleared 24 tonnes of apples from South Africa. Chinese state media described the shipment as the first batch of imports to enter the country under the expanded zero-tariff arrangement.
The earlier policy had removed tariffs on all imports from 33 least-developed African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China from December 1, 2024. The latest expansion extends the treatment to all 53 African diplomatic partners.
China has been Africa’s largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years, according to Chinese state media. The new arrangement is expected to support exports of African agricultural and speciality products, including fruit, coffee, cocoa and other goods, into the Chinese market.
Source: AMNA
