China’s expanded zero‑tariff treatment for African countries took effect on Friday, extending duty‑free access to 53 nations until 30 April 2028 as Beijing broadens a policy it says is designed to boost African exports.
The only African country excluded is Eswatini, which maintains diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
The move builds on China’s earlier decision to grant duty‑free entry to goods from 33 least‑developed African countries by the end of 2024.
Beijing has promoted the initiative as the first unilateral zero‑tariff regime offered by a major economy to the continent, positioning it as part of its broader economic and diplomatic engagement with Africa.
Analysts say the expanded scheme could increase African agricultural exports and support rural incomes, but caution that tariffs are not the main barrier facing African producers.
Africa’s trade deficit with China continues to widen, rising 65 percent last year to about US$102 billion, with African exports still dominated by crude oil, ores and other raw materials while Chinese manufactured goods flow in the opposite direction.
China has not indicated whether the zero‑tariff arrangement will be extended beyond 2028.
JN/APA