China has implemented a comprehensive zero-tariff policy aimed at boosting trade with African nations, a move announced during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in late 2024. This policy took effect on December 1, 2024, and is designed to encourage exports from Africa to China.
Initially, the zero-tariff treatment covered all tariff lines for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) that have diplomatic relations with China, impacting 33 African nations. By May 2026, the policy was expanded to include all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties to China, removing duties for middle-income economies such as Egypt, Nigeria, and Kenya.
Unlike typical free trade agreements that require reciprocal tax reductions, China’s approach is unilateral. This shift has resulted in a significant transformation of the trade landscape. Between 2024 and 2025, bilateral trade surged 17.7 percent, rising from $295.6 billion to $348 billion. China’s exports to Africa increased sharply, climbing from $178.76 billion to $225.03 billion, a rise of 25.8 percent.
The introduction of “Green Lanes” for agricultural products has played a crucial role in this trade growth. Alongside removing tariffs that previously reached 30 percent for some products, China has streamlined customs processes for perishable goods from Africa, providing African exporters a competitive edge over rivals from regions like Latin America and Southeast Asia.
Bilateral trade is diversifying beyond traditional commodities, with notable increases in specialty exports, such as Senegalese tuna, Rwandan chili, and Ethiopian coffee. Furthermore, Chinese investments are flowing into local processing industries, fostering value addition and enhancing the quality of products traded.
While the trade facilitation by China is seen as commendable, experts urge African nations to tackle internal logistics costs, which can undermine the benefits of the zero-tariff policy. Despite previous Chinese investments in infrastructure, more development is essential to address these challenges. Additionally, a trade imbalance remains a concern, prompting calls for Africa to focus on increasing production and diversifying its export base.
The next phase of China-Africa trade focuses on enhancing industrial growth, shared prosperity, and establishing a more balanced partnership. Stakeholders emphasize that while the zero-tariff policy opens new avenues, sustained value addition, investment, and improved production capacities will be critical for achieving long-term success in this partnership.
