Chinese President Xi Jinping has announced that Beijing will begin scrapping tariffs on imports from nearly all African countries starting May 1.
According to Chinese state media, the zero-tariff policy will apply to 53 African nations that maintain diplomatic ties with China. The only exception is Eswatini, which has diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
China had already granted tariff-free access to goods from 33 African countries. However, Beijing disclosed last year that it planned to expand the policy to cover all its African diplomatic partners.
As Africa’s largest trading partner, China plays a major role in the continent’s infrastructure development, largely through its Belt and Road Initiative. The expanded zero-tariff arrangement is expected to further strengthen trade ties and create new economic opportunities for African nations.
Xi said the move “will undoubtedly provide new opportunities for African development,” making the announcement as African leaders gathered in Ethiopia for the annual African Union summit.
The decision comes amid shifting global trade dynamics, with several African countries seeking alternative trade partners after former U.S. President Donald Trump imposed sweeping tariffs worldwide last year.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to assert its claim over the island.
