China has begun implementing a sweeping zero-tariff policy covering all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, marking a major expansion in its trade cooperation with the continent.
According to Chinese customs authorities, the first batch of imports under the new arrangement arrived on Friday, including 24 tonnes of South African apples cleared through Shenzhen customs. The shipment is now headed to supermarkets and wholesale markets across China, benefiting from a tariff reduction from 10 percent to zero.
Officials said the policy significantly improves the competitiveness of African goods in the Chinese market. A logistics company handling the shipment estimated savings of around 20,000 yuan (approximately 2,929 US dollars) on the apple consignment alone.
The expanded initiative builds on China’s earlier decision in December 2024 to grant zero-tariff access to 100 percent of tariff lines for 33 least developed African countries. The latest phase extends similar benefits to relatively more developed economies, including Kenya, Egypt, and Nigeria.
Among other early beneficiaries, a large shipment of Egyptian oranges entered Shanghai duty-free, while Kenyan avocados and South African wine also cleared customs with significant tax exemptions.
In Hunan province, more than 6,000 bottles of South African wine were processed under the new system, with importers estimating retail prices could fall by 15 to 20 percent due to reduced costs.
Chinese officials said the policy aims to broaden market access for African agricultural and value-added products such as cocoa, coffee, citrus fruits, and wine, many of which previously faced tariffs ranging from 8 to 30 percent.
China has remained Africa’s largest trading partner for 17 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching a record 348 billion US dollars in 2025.
Authorities described the policy as a reflection of multilateral trade principles at a time when global protectionism is increasing. Experts suggest the move could further balance China-Africa trade and encourage investment in African manufacturing aimed at exporting to China.