Chinese President Xi Jinping confirmed that China will extend zero-tariff treatment to imports from all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties, effective May 1, 2026. The only exception is Eswatini, which recognizes Taiwan.
This policy expands the existing duty-free arrangement that currently covers 33 nations, fulfilling a commitment made last year to broaden trade access for the continent. Xi framed the move as a “new opportunity for African development” and signaled plans to advance negotiations on a comprehensive economic partnership agreement.
The zero-tariff treatment is expected to boost African exports of commodities, agricultural products, and manufactured goods by eliminating import duties and enhancing competitiveness in China, the world’s second-largest economy. Beijing also pledged to simplify customs procedures, improve clearance efficiency, and provide inspection and quarantine support.
The announcement coincides with ongoing China-Africa economic cooperation under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and comes amid shifts in global trade dynamics, including U.S. tariff policies. Implementation details will be shared through bilateral and multilateral channels in the coming weeks.
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