China has extended its zero-tariff trade policy to nearly all African nations, excluding only Eswatini due to its diplomatic ties with Taiwan. The expanded policy, which runs until April 30, 2028, builds on an earlier duty-free arrangement introduced in December 2024 for 33 least-developed African countries, and now covers 53 nations across the continent.
According to analysts, the move strengthens Beijing’s economic influence in Africa and positions it as a more open trade partner compared to the United States, particularly amid tariff disputes linked to former President Donald Trump. Experts, however, argue that while the policy could boost agricultural exports and improve rural incomes across parts of Africa, tariff removal alone may not significantly transform trade relations due to deeper structural challenges such as weak industrial capacity, poor logistics, and overdependence on raw material exports.
Africa’s trade imbalance with China remains a major concern, with the continent’s deficit reportedly rising sharply last year as exports continue to be dominated by crude oil, metallic ores, and other raw commodities. Analysts also note that the benefits of the tariff-free regime are likely to be uneven, with more industrialised economies such as South Africa and Morocco better positioned to take advantage of the opportunity than less-developed nations.
Source: https://www.thisdaylive.com/
