In a move to strengthen economic ties, the General Administration of Customs of China announced on July 14, 2025, that it would implement a zero-tariff policy for imports from 53 African countries that have established diplomatic relations with China. This policy grants duty-free access to a wide range of African products, including agricultural goods, minerals, textiles, and manufactured items.
The announcement was made during the China-Africa Trade and Economic Cooperation Forum in Changsha, reflecting a strategic effort to balance China's trade surplus with Africa and open up new export opportunities for African nations. The policy aims to deepen trade ties and enhance export opportunities for African businesses, allowing them to better compete in the Chinese market.
This initiative builds upon previous zero-tariff measures and extends the benefits to all African countries with diplomatic ties to China, excluding only eSwatini due to its diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The policy is seen as a positive step towards fostering a more inclusive and strategic economic partnership between China and Africa.