US EditionChina to implement zero tariffs on imports from 53 African countries
China will remove tariffs on imports from 53 African nations except Eswatini starting May 1, 2026, aiming to boost African exports and rebalance trade flows, officials said.
- Chinese President Xi Jinping announced zero tariffs on imports from 53 African countries starting May 1, 2026, expanding a duty-free regime that excludes Eswatini.
- Beijing says the move follows sustained diplomatic engagement, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's recent trip to China, aiming to boost African exports and rebalance trade flows.
- Trade data from China's General Administration of Customs indicate bilateral trade reached $59.55 billion in the first eight months of 2025, with imports of 15,032 megawatts of Chinese solar panels and reliance on raw materials.
- The move contrasts with Western programmes as economists estimate China will forgo around $1.4 billion in tariff revenue while pledging trade facilitation funds and financial products to support African enterprises.
- Analysts caution non-tariff barriers—regulatory standards, logistics, financing gaps—will limit African exporters despite zero tariffs, while narrowing the trade gap depends on African economies' diversification and manufacturing capacity.
33 Articles
33 Articles
China will remove customs duties for all African countries, with the exception of Eswatini, beginning on 1 May, China President Xi Jinping announced on Saturday, AFP reported.
With One Exception, China Makes a Historic Decision to Exempt African Countries From Customs Duties.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has abolished tariffs on imports from most African countries, effective May 1st, with only one exception, as part of a move aimed at strengthening economic cooperation and advancing development in Africa.
Beijing will continue to extend market access for African exports and will apply zero customs tariffs for 53 African countries with diplomatic relations starting on 1 May, related Saturday...
After U.S. extends AGOA, China finally agrees zero-tariff access for 53 African nations
China will implement zero-tariff treatment for imports from 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations from May 1, 2026, state media reported on Saturday, in a move that broadens Beijing’s preferential trade regime across the continent.
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 38% of the sources are Center, 37% of the sources lean Right
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
