China announces zero tariffs for African partners

The measure will apply to nearly all goods imported from 53 countries on the continent, President Xi Jinping has said

China will eliminate import tariffs on goods from 53 African countries, President Xi Jinping has announced, in a sweeping trade move set to take effect on May 1.

The Chinese leader announced the decision in a message to heads of state attending an African Union summit in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, on Saturday.

Xi said the zero-tariff treatment will apply to nearly all goods imported from eligible countries, expanding a duty-free regime that had previously covered only least developed nations.

Eswatini is the only African country excluded, as it maintains diplomatic ties with Taiwan, which China regards as part of its territory.

The policy will “create new opportunities for Africa’s development” and deepen “mutually beneficial cooperation,” Xi said, adding that China would also upgrade a “green channel” to ease access for African exports.

READ MORE: China opens market to South African exports

China has been Africa’s largest trading partner for nearly two decades. Bilateral trade reached more than $348 billion in 2025, according to Chinese customs data. African exports largely consist of oil, minerals, and agricultural products, while Chinese exports to the continent are dominated by manufactured goods.

The move comes as African countries confront shifting global trade dynamics. The US recently extended its flagship African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants duty-free access to eligible African exports, but trade tensions persist.

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Washington has also imposed tariffs on certain imports as part of broader trade measures, raising concerns among some African governments about future access to the US market. South Africa, one of the biggest beneficiaries of AGOA, has faced tariff pressure and disputes with the US over market access, and has sought to strengthen trade ties with China and other Asian economies.

China has increasingly expanded its economic engagement across Africa, financing infrastructure projects through its Belt and Road Initiative and other projects.

African officials have welcomed the latest measure. Uganda’s minister of state for foreign affairs, Henry Okello Oryem, said Xi’s efforts will boost trade between Africa and China.

Jito Kayomba, special assistant and adviser to Zambia’s president on finance and investment, also said it demonstrates “the deep friendship between Africa and China.”