China has announced that it will eliminate tariffs on imports from 53 African countries, a move aimed at strengthening trade ties and boosting economic cooperation with the continent.
The decision, which will take effect on May 1, 2026, applies to all African nations that maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing. The announcement was made by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Li Jingjing on social media following remarks by China’s top diplomat.
China🇨🇳 is removing tariffs on Africa🌍.Zero tariff on products from all 53 African countries that have diplomatic ties with China.
Effective on May 1, 2026.pic.twitter.com/uZxdOWy65w
— Li Jingjing 李菁菁 (@Jingjing_Li)March 9, 2026
Speaking at a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said African countries can count on China’s support for economic development and revitalisation.
The tariff removal is expected to make it easier for African exporters to sell agricultural goods, minerals, textiles and manufactured products in the Chinese market.
This move is part of China’s broader strategy to deepen economic and political ties with Africa, a region that has become increasingly important for Beijing’s global trade and infrastructure ambitions.
China has been Africa’s largest trading partner for more than a decade, with trade between the two sides exceeding $280 billion in recent years. Many African countries export raw materials such as copper, cobalt, rare earth metals, oil and agricultural products to China while importing machinery, electronics and manufactured goods.
Rare earth metals, cobalt and copper are they key resoruces for Chinese EV industry, accounting to almost 70 per cent of global sales.
Source: World News in news18.com, World Latest News, World News
