Beginning May 1, 2026, China is granting zero-tariff treatment to 100% of tariff lines for goods from 53 African countries with diplomatic relations, aiming to boost trade through April 2028.
This initiative targets agricultural and manufactured goods, aiming to improve market access and deepen economic ties. Eswatini is the only exception.
Expanded Zero-Tariff Treatment: From May 1, 2026, all African nations with diplomatic ties to Beijing (53 countries) will benefit from zero tariffs on imports into China, building upon the 100% tariff line coverage previously granted to 33 least-developed African countries.
READ: Africa: Zimbabwe Eyes Export Boom as China Scraps Tariffs on Agricultural Goods
Excluded Nation: Eswatini is excluded from this, as the sole nation recognizing Taiwan.
Duration: This initiative runs from May 1, 2026, through April 30, 2028, according to the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council.
Goal: To enhance market access for African products (especially agricultural) and support industrialization, allowing the continent to shift from merely providing raw materials.
Goal: The policy is part of a broader “China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development” aimed at reducing non-tariff barriers, enhancing trade facilitation, and promoting investment.
