China Grants Zero Tariff to Forge Closer Africa Partnership
ISSUING AUTHORITY:
Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council
DATE OF ISSUANCE:
April 28, 2026
EFFECTIVE DATE:
May 1, 2026
On April 28, 2026, the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council issued an official announcement stating that, from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2028, China would implement zero tariffs in the form of special preferential tax rates on imports from 20 African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China and are not classified as least-developed countries (the “Policy”). As for the 33 African least developed countries that maintain diplomatic ties with China, China has already granted zero-tariff treatment on 100% of their tariff lines since December 1, 2024.
The Policy is implemented through preferential tariff rates over a two-year period. It offers Zimbabwe and other Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states a concrete opportunity, through which governments can accelerate SPS negotiations, align projects under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) with national export strategies, and leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for regional industrial integration. As for businesses, they can focus more effectively on high-value, competitive products and use platforms such as the China International Import Expo to connect with potential buyers.
Amid rising unilateralism and protectionism, this move embodies China’s principles of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith in its engagement with Africa. It also represents an innovative arrangement between China and Africa.
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