China Opens Tariff-Free Trade to African Nations with Diplomatic Ties from May 1

Beijing has announced a major expansion of its trade policy with Africa, stating that it will extend zero tariff treatment to all African countries that have diplomatic ties with China , starting May 1 .

The move is being seen as a significant step in strengthening economic relations between China and Africa, a partnership that has grown steadily into one of the most important global trade networks.

According to an official statement from the Customs Tariff Commission of China’s State Council , the new arrangement will be implemented from May 1, 2026 to April 30, 2028 . During this period, China will offer preferential zero tariff rates to 20 African countries that are not classified as least developed nations but maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing.

The policy clarifies that for goods under tariff quota systems , only the in quota tariff rate will be reduced to zero, while out of quota rates will remain unchanged.

China also confirmed that its expanded zero tariff framework now covers 53 African countries . Earlier, since December 1, 2024 , it had already granted full tariff exemption on all goods for 33 least developed African countries with diplomatic ties.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China will continue to negotiate and sign economic partnership agreements for shared development with African nations. He also highlighted steps to improve trade flow, including upgrading the green channel system for African agricultural exports and enhancing overall trade facilitation.

Trade between China and Africa has reached significant levels, touching around USD 348 billion in 2025 . Of this, China’s exports stood at USD 225 billion, while African exports to China accounted for USD 123 billion.

The latest decision reflects China’s broader strategy to deepen economic engagement with Africa while expanding market access for African goods in its domestic market.