China has extended zero-tariff treatment to imports from 53 African countries, broadening market access in a move aimed at deepening trade ties and accelerating industrial development across the continent.
The policy applies to all African nations that maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing, according to state media outlet Xinhua News Agency. It significantly expands earlier measures that granted full tariff exemptions to 33 of Africa’s least developed countries.
Chinese customs authorities confirmed that the first shipment under the expanded scheme — 24 tonnes of apples from South Africa — cleared entry in Shenzhen on Friday, marking the official rollout of the initiative.
The removal of tariffs, which previously ranged between 8% and 30%, is expected to enhance the competitiveness of African exports in the Chinese market. Key sectors likely to benefit include agricultural products such as cocoa, coffee, citrus fruits, and wine.
Officials in Beijing say the policy is also designed to encourage greater value addition within African economies by supporting local processing industries, reducing reliance on raw commodity exports.
China remains Africa’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching a record $348 billion in 2025. Imports from Africa accounted for $123 billion of that total, reflecting a 5.4% year-on-year increase.
The tariff expansion aligns with Beijing’s broader economic strategy under its 15th Five-Year Plan, which prioritises market liberalisation and deeper global trade integration. Authorities have also pledged to improve the transparency and predictability of the business environment while expanding trade and investment cooperation with Africa through 2030.