China will remove tariffs on imports from almost every African country from May 1, in a move that could reshape trade flows between Beijing and the continent.
According to Chinese state media, President Xi Jinping made the announcement on Saturday, confirming that zero levies will apply to 53 African nations with which China maintains diplomatic relations.
The only exception is Eswatini, which recognises Taiwan instead of Beijing. China regards the self-governing island as part of its territory and has repeatedly said it does not rule out the use of force to bring it under its control.
Beijing had already introduced a zero-tariff policy covering imports from 33 African countries. Last year, however, Chinese officials indicated that the arrangement would be expanded to include all African diplomatic partners. Saturday’s announcement confirms that the broader policy will now take effect from the beginning of May.
China remains Africa’s largest trading partner and has invested heavily across the continent through its flagship Belt and Road Initiative, financing railways, ports, highways and energy projects.
The tariff decision comes at a time when many African governments are reassessing global trade relationships.
Several countries have been seeking alternative markets after former US President Donald Trump imposed sweeping tariffs worldwide last year, triggering shifts in trade dynamics.
Xi said the zero-tariff deal “will undoubtedly provide new opportunities for African development”, unveiling the timeline as African leaders convened in Addis Ababa for the annual African Union summit.
