China will remove tariffs on imports from almost all African countries starting May 1, 2026, President Xi Jinping has announced.
According to Chinese state media, the zero-tariff policy will apply to 52 African countries that have diplomatic relations with Beijing. Only Eswatini will not benefit from the deal because it maintains diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
China had already allowed duty-free access to goods from 33 African countries. Last year, Beijing promised to extend the policy to all its African partners, and President Xi has now confirmed that the new arrangement will take effect on May 1.
President Xi said the move will create new opportunities for Africa’s growth and strengthen economic cooperation between China and the continent. He made the announcement as African leaders gathered in Ethiopia for the African Union summit.
China is Africa’s largest trading partner and has funded many major infrastructure projects across the continent through its Belt and Road Initiative. The new zero-tariff policy is expected to boost African exports to China, especially agricultural products, minerals, and manufactured goods.
The decision comes at a time when many African countries are seeking new trade partners. This follows the introduction of higher global tariffs by former US President Donald Trump last year, which affected trade relations worldwide.
Experts say the removal of tariffs could help African businesses access the large Chinese market more easily, increase export earnings, and support job creation. However, analysts also note that African countries will need to improve production capacity and quality standards to fully benefit from the opportunity.
The new policy marks another step in strengthening China–Africa economic ties and could reshape trade relations between the two sides in the coming years.
