China’s zero-tariff treatment for the 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic ties is set to boost Africa’s economic growth and modernization

The importance of Africa’s trade with China is reflected in numerous bilateral, multilateral and regional agreements. This is also indicative of the new policy of the Chinese government that, starting May 1, China fully implemented zero tariffs on all products from 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic ties.

Historically, Africa has faced significant challenges in its trade relations with Western countries. Stringent duties and high tariffs imposed by Western countries have often hindered the export of African goods. For instance, the United States administration has reignited tensions in international trade. This approach has had a negative impact on many African nations, thus making it difficult for them to compete on the global stage.

In contrast, China has offered a solution by removing trade barriers. By taking these steps, China is offering new opportunities for economic growth and prosperity across the African continent, provided these advantages are effectively leveraged by African governments.

The trade relationship between China and Africa has been highly significant. In light of this situation, implementing a zero-tariff policy can help boost trade with China, reduce trade imbalances, support Africa’s manufacturing growth, and encourage trade and development within Africa itself.

Data released by China’s General Administration of Customs indicate that China has become Africa’s largest trading partner, with trade totaling $348 billion in 2025. However, it is estimated that Africa’s trade with China accounts for 4.5 to 5.5 percent of China’s global trade. Thus, with a zero-tariff policy now in place, Africa will gain wider access to China’s vast and promising market. This initiative also indicates that China is readily attuned to the concerns expressed about trade imbalances with Africa, extending beyond traditional diplomatic and soft-power considerations. This significant policy will gradually enable Africa to increase production and expand trade, thereby increasing revenue and competitiveness while also lowering production costs.

One barrier to the effective participation of some African nations in international trade is the persistent lack of robust industrialization. Across the continent, numerous countries are struggling with insufficient infrastructure, outdated production techniques, and limited manufacturing capacity. According to the African Trade Report 2024 released by the African Export-Import Bank, the African continent accounts for about 2 percent of global trade. And some African nations rely heavily on exporting unprocessed raw materials such as crude oil, copper, cobalt, coffee, cocoa and lithium, while importing finished goods, machinery and technology.

This situation compromises their ability to compete globally, preventing them from fully exploiting the opportunities that international markets offer. The implementation of a zero-tariff policy could catalyze the growth of a more dynamic and resilient industrial sector in Africa. By eliminating tariffs, some African nations can reduce costs for manufacturers, encourage foreign investment and promote local production. This shift could lead to increased manufacturing output and innovation, which are crucial for fostering competitive industries. This comprehensive approach can pave the way for economic development that ultimately benefits not only the individual countries but the entire continent.

Some African countries can fully leverage this opportunity by combining their comparative advantages with efforts to improve logistics and standards systems. This will further boost export growth and diversification, which many African nations have been grappling with over the years.

The policy can also boost agriculture and food security. The zero-tariff policy is expected to enhance the agricultural sector across the African continent. Also, by promoting the processing and packaging of agricultural goods, some African nations can create a spectrum of jobs that range from farming and harvesting to manufacturing and distribution. These African nations can expect an increase in employment opportunities within local communities. This is particularly crucial, as the agricultural sector serves as one of the largest sources of employment in Africa, providing livelihoods for millions of people. In fact, China’s zero-tariff policy for Africa has the potential to uplift rural economies and empower communities throughout the continent.

The landmark zero-tariff policy will also have positive effects on boosting intra-African trade and, importantly, the African Continental Free Trade Area. This policy will encourage intra-African trade by enabling some African nations to capitalize on their comparative advantages. As a result, countries will not only trade raw materials and commodities among themselves, but also exchange finished or value-added goods. Furthermore, it can incentivize the development of regional supply chains in Africa to meet China’s growing demand.

In conclusion, China’s zero-tariff policy for the 53 African nations with which it has diplomatic ties could not have come at a more opportune moment for Africa, as the world grapples with uncertainty, trade wars and conflicts that threaten the stability of developing countries. This effort offers opportunities for Africa’s modernization through industrialization and manufacturing, aiming to realize a shared future for both parties.

The author is a professor at the Institute of African Studies at Zhejiang Normal University.

The author contributed this article to China Watch, a think tank powered by China Daily. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

Contact the editor at editor@chinawatch.cn.