China Grants Zero Tariffs to 53 African Countries

China implemented a zero-tariff policy on imports from 53 African countries on May 1, extending duty-free access to its vast market for goods from all nations maintaining diplomatic relations with Beijing, except Eswatini.

The measure, announced by the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council, builds on a December 2024 initiative that granted full zero-tariff treatment to 33 least-developed African countries. It now includes an additional 20 economies, such as Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Algeria and Kenya, with the policy in effect until April 30, 2028. Products must meet rules of origin, quality standards, inspection and quarantine requirements. China's Ministry of Commerce stated the policy would enhance market competitiveness for African exports, particularly agricultural goods previously facing tariffs of 8 to 30 percent, including cocoa from Ivory Coast and Ghana, coffee and avocados from Kenya, citrus fruits, wine and apples from South Africa, and Nigerian items like sesame, ginger, cashews and cocoa.

The first shipment under the new rules cleared customs in Shenzhen early on May 1: 24 metric tons of South African apples. Officials described it as a step toward...