Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that China will eliminate import tariffs on goods from 53 African nations with which it has formal diplomatic ties, beginning May 1, 2026. The move extends Beijing’s existing zero-tariff policy, which already covered 33 African countries, to nearly all of the continent.
The tariff exemption will cover all imports from the 53 countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China, as announced by state media. The only exception is Eswatini, which has diplomatic ties with Taiwan instead of Beijing, a factor that has excluded it from the deal.
Officials said the zero-tariff policy will be paired with efforts to expand market access for African exports into China by upgrading customs clearance mechanisms and negotiating joint economic partnership agreements. The so-called “green channel” improvements are aimed at speeding trade flows and cutting red tape at ports and borders.
China has deepened economic ties with African states over the past two decades, investing heavily in infrastructure and becoming the continent’s largest trading partner. Africa’s exports to China have grown steadily, with key sectors including minerals, energy and agricultural products.
The tariff removal comes amid global trade tensions, with some Western countries imposing higher levies on select African goods. Chinese officials have framed their move as part of a broader strategy to support development and “shared opportunities” with Global South partners.
Leaders of several African governments attending the African Union summit in Ethiopia welcomed the timing of the announcement, saying the policy shift could open new opportunities for exporters across the continent as global demand for raw materials and manufactured goods shifts.
China’s move will take effect alongside ongoing discussions around trade diversification, with African states balancing relations between major economic partners in Asia, Europe and the United States.