Addis Ababa, May 1, 2026 (FMC) – China’s zero-tariff access policy for African goods has officially taken effect, marking a significant step in efforts to strengthen trade ties and support industrial development across the continent.
The policy, which came into force on Friday, removes tariffs on imports from 53 African countries with which China maintains diplomatic relations.
The exemption applies to all African countries except Eswatini, which maintains diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
The move builds on earlier measures that had granted full tariff exemptions to 33 of Africa’s least developed countries.
As the policy took effect, Chinese customs cleared the first shipment under the arrangement—24 tonnes of apples imported from South Africa—in Shenzhen on Friday, marking the operational start of expanded market access for African exports.
Chinese commerce authorities said the initiative is expected to enhance the competitiveness of African products—including cocoa, coffee, citrus fruits, and wine—in the Chinese market, where such goods previously faced tariffs ranging from 8 to 30 percent.
China remains Africa’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching a record 348 billion U.S. dollars in 2025. Of this, China’s imports from Africa accounted for 123 billion dollars, reflecting a 5.4 percent year-on-year increase.
The tariff exemption also aligns with China’s broader push to deepen economic openness under its 15th Five-Year Plan, which aims to further expand market access.
Authorities have also committed to enhancing the quality and scope of trade and investment cooperation with African countries through 2030.