China has announced it will remove tariffs on imports from 53 African nations, expanding its trade engagement with the continent from 1 May 2026. The policy was confirmed by Xi Jinping, leader of China, according to state media reports.
The decision aims to deepen economic ties and increase trade flows between Beijing and African markets. Eswatini remains the only country excluded due to its diplomatic recognition of Taiwan, whose sovereignty is contested by China.
Key developments:
• China expands its existing zero-tariff policy from 33 to 53 African countries.
• China–Africa trade reached approximately $222 billion in early 2025.
• The move is expected to boost African export access to Chinese markets.
• Eswatini’s exclusion reflects ongoing China–Taiwan diplomatic tensions.
The tariff removal highlights China’s continuing economic outreach across Africa and intensifying geopolitical competition for influence on the continent.
ℹ️ africanews
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