Starting May 1, 2026, the People’s Republic of China will completely eliminate tariffs on imports from 53 African nations that maintain diplomatic relations with the PRC. This decision will open new opportunities for trade development between China and African countries, as well as promote deeper economic cooperation at the intercontinental level.
This is reported by Finway
Deepening Economic Partnership
The intention of China was announced by the leader of the PRC, Xi Jinping, in his address to the Chairperson of the African Union, João Lourenço, and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahamudu Ali Yusuf. The greeting was timed to coincide with the arrival of the Year of the Red Horse according to the lunar calendar.
“At the same time, China will continue to promote negotiations and the signing of economic partnership agreements for mutual development, as well as expand access for African exports to the Chinese market through the modernization of the ‘green channel’ and other measures,” Xi noted.
New Opportunities for Africa and China
According to Xi Jinping, the complete elimination of tariffs and further opening of the Chinese market will not only stimulate bilateral trade but also contribute to achieving modernization goals for both Africa and the PRC. The introduction of zero tariffs will allow African countries to expand their exports and integrate into global supply chains.
China also plans to continue improving the ‘green channel’—a system for expedited access for African goods, which will optimize export processes and ensure a broader entry of African products into the Chinese market.