China to scrap tariffs on goods from 53 African nations starting May

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that, beginning May 1, 2026, China will fully implement zero-tariff measures for all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations.

“In full, China will implement zero tariffs on all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations starting May 1, 2026,” Xi said in a congratulatory message to African Union (AU) Chairperson João Lourenço and AU Commission Chairperson Mahamudu Ali Yusuf on the occasion of the upcoming Lunar New Year of the Red Horse.

Xi also noted that Beijing plans to advance negotiations on a comprehensive economic partnership agreement to promote development and expand access for African products to the Chinese market. He promised to optimise the operation of the “green channel” for African goods.

“These new Chinese measures to expand high-level openness will undoubtedly provide new opportunities for Africa’s development and help realise the China-Africa dream of modernisation,” Xi added.

According to the General Administration of Customs of China, trade between China and African countries rose by 17.7% in 2025, reaching $348.05 billion. Exports from China increased by 25.8% to $225.03 billion, while imports from Africa grew by 5.4%, reaching $123.02 billion.

By Tamilla Hasanova