Wayne Lumbasi
China has renewed its pledge to grant full zero tariff access to goods from African nations, marking a bold step toward a fairer and more inclusive global trade order. The announcement, made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the 23rd Lanting Forum in Beijing, underscores Beijing’s growing commitment to strengthen economic partnerships across the continent through the Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
Under the new agreement, all African countries maintaining diplomatic ties with China will now enjoy 100 percent tariff free treatment for their exports. The initiative aims to boost trade volumes, diversify exports, and create new opportunities for African industries to integrate into global value chains.
Beyond removing tariffs, China has unveiled a comprehensive support package to drive sustainable development in Africa. This includes establishing five industrial cooperation zones, funding over 30 infrastructure projects, and creating a service fund to enhance economic collaboration.
The plan also promises 1,000 small scale livelihood projects, a China Africa hospital alliance, vocational training programs, and expanded cooperation in agriculture, education, climate action, and technology.
Wang Yi reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Africa’s aspirations for stronger representation on the global stage, saying Beijing “firmly supports the reform of the United Nations Security Council to increase the voice and influence of developing nations.”
For African countries, the zero tariff policy is more than a trade concession, it represents a gateway to transformative growth. By opening one of the world’s largest consumer markets to African goods, the deal could empower local producers, boost exports of agricultural and manufactured products, and spur industrial development.
This landmark partnership positions China not only as Africa’s largest trading partner but also as a steadfast ally in the continent’s pursuit of inclusive growth, industrialisation, and shared prosperity. The challenge now lies in translating this promise into tangible progress where African goods, innovation, and ambition find their rightful place in the global economy.
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