JOHANNESBURG, Feb 14 – China will introduce zero tariff treatment for imports from 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, effective May 1, 2026, according to state media reports.
The move is expected to significantly enhance trade flows between China and African economies by reducing the cost of exporting goods into one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
In addition to eliminating tariffs, Chinese authorities said they will continue advancing negotiations and signing joint economic partnership agreements with African nations. These arrangements are designed to deepen long term trade and investment cooperation.
Beijing also plans to further expand market access for African exports through upgraded trade facilitation mechanisms, including its so called “green channel” system, which streamlines customs procedures and accelerates clearance for eligible goods.
The zero tariff policy signals a further strengthening of economic ties between China and Africa, positioning African exporters to benefit from broader access to Chinese markets across agriculture, manufacturing and resource based sectors.
