China’s new zero-tariff policy is unlocking exciting opportunities for African countries, fueling trade growth and economic development across the continent.
Starting Sunday, China has granted zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent of tariff lines to all least developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations. This groundbreaking move makes China the first major developing country to take such a significant step, highlighting its commitment to shared growth with nations worldwide.
Christopher Mutsvangwa, a senior member of Zimbabwe’s ruling party, noted that this policy demonstrates China’s willingness to open its market further and will significantly boost China-Africa trade. “Chinese consumers are increasingly interested in African agricultural products,” he said. “Zimbabwean oranges and other produce are already making their way into China. We hope that sesame and other crops will soon join them.”
Madagascar is among the countries benefiting from the zero-tariff treatment. Rabenja Claudio, a Malagasy international relations expert, pointed out that a variety of products—including agriculture, textiles, seafood, and handicrafts—are now set to enter the Chinese market duty-free.
China isn’t stopping at tariff exemptions. According to Yang Baorong, a researcher at the China-Africa Institute, China is exploring comprehensive measures to assist Africa in promoting trade. These include facilitating trade agreements, supporting cross-border e-commerce, and helping African businesses participate in Chinese trade exhibitions.
At the 7th China International Import Expo last month, China provided over 120 free booths to exhibitors from 37 least developed countries, focusing on showcasing special agricultural products from Africa. One of the exhibitors, Tanzania Future Enterprises Company Limited, sees this as a milestone. “The expo paves the way for Tanzanian honey products to enter the Chinese market,” said Jackson Mponela, the company’s production manager. “It’s an important step for our brand to go global.”
This year also marked the debut of Madagascar’s mutton products at the expo. Michel Anondraka, director general of agriculture and livestock at Madagascar’s Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, believes that China’s vast market will boost local production and accelerate agricultural modernization in his country.
Experts agree that China’s zero-tariff policy is a powerful driver for economic cooperation in the Global South. “Africa is the continent with the largest number of least developed countries,” Yang said. “China’s initiative aims to enhance industrial cooperation through large-scale trade and encourage more countries to pursue modernization together.”
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African countries applaud China's zero-tariff treatment policy
cgtn.com
