China has announced a major trade policy granting zero tariffs on all goods from 53 African countries with diplomatic ties, starting May 1, 2026, in a move aimed at deepening economic cooperation and boosting trade flows between both regions.
The policy was unveiled in a congratulatory message from President Xi Jinping to the 39th African Union Summit, marking the 70th anniversary of China-Africa diplomatic relations. The initiative is expected to significantly expand African access to the Chinese market.
According to China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the policy is designed to reduce trade barriers, increase export opportunities for Africa, and improve livelihoods through stronger economic exchange between both sides. He described the strategy as a mechanism that uses tariff removal to stimulate trade growth and development outcomes.
China noted that its trade with Africa has continued to grow steadily, reaching record levels in recent years, with the country maintaining its position as Africa’s largest trading partner for over a decade.
The new policy will also be supported by additional measures such as improved export channels, digital trade platforms, and commodity exhibition centres to make it easier for African goods to enter the Chinese market.
Chinese officials said the initiative is part of broader efforts under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) action plan, aimed at strengthening long-term economic partnership and industrial development across Africa.
Nigeria is expected to benefit significantly from the arrangement, as bilateral trade between China and Nigeria continues to grow. Key Nigerian export products such as agricultural commodities and raw materials are expected to gain improved access and competitiveness in the Chinese market under the new tariff regime.
The two countries also recently signed an economic partnership framework focused on trade expansion, manufacturing development, agriculture transformation, green development, and digital trade cooperation.
Chinese authorities say the zero-tariff policy is intended to promote balanced development, strengthen economic ties, and support Africa’s industrialisation and diversification goals.
