SABACIREBON – China officially implemented a zero percent tariff policy for 53 countries in Africa with which it has diplomatic relations, from 1 May 2026 to 30 April 2028.
Spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lin Jianstated that this policy was a strategic step to expand economic openness unilaterally while responding positively to the hopes of African countries.
Previously, similar facilities were only provided to 33 least developed countries (LDC). This expansion of coverage refers to the President’s commitment Xi Jinping in forums China-Africa Cooperation Forum (FOCAC) in September 2024 in Beijing.
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This policy is considered a new milestone in economic and diplomatic relations between China and Africa, especially amidst the increasing trend of global protectionism. Through this step, China is opening wider access for African products to enter its domestic market.
Apart from expanding trade, this policy is also expected to encourage investment and industrial cooperation. Chinese companies will gain greater opportunities to explore the African market, while partner countries in the region can strengthen their economic development capacity.
China also plans to accelerate the establishment of long-term economic partnerships with African countries, including facilitating access to exports of agricultural and food products through the “green route” scheme.
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In its implementation, the zero percent tariff only applies to products that are within the quota limit (in-quota), while products outside the quota are still subject to the normal tariff.
As part of its long-term commitment, since 2024 China has also channeled major financial support to Africa, including loans, aid and corporate investment totaling hundreds of billions of yuan until 2027. ***
Source: AntaraNews
