After a week of zero tariffs... what has Africa gained from China's decision?

Written by Omnia Hassan

Starting from May 1, 2026, it began China  The application of a “zero tariff” policy on imports from 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations, in a move that is the first of its kind from a major global economy.

An unprecedented Chinese move in global trade

This initiative extends until April 2028 and includes a comprehensive exemption for most goods. African With the exception of Eswatini, this reflects both economic and political dimensions.

This policy comes as part of an expansion of a previous initiative that included 33 least developed countries, before it was expanded to include additional African countries, at a time when the world is witnessing an escalation in protectionist policies.

Promising opportunities for African agricultural exports

Experts believe the decision gives a strong boost to agricultural exports such as cocoa from Ivory Coast and Ghana, coffee and avocados from Kenya, and citrus fruits from South Africa, which were previously subject to duties ranging between 8% and 30%.

This is expected to open the door to broader Chinese investment within the continent, supporting local manufacturing and technology transfer, and strengthening Africa's position in global supply chains.

Limited impact on oil and minerals

Despite the widespread praise, analysts emphasize that African oil and mineral exports already enjoyed near-total exemption, thus limiting the impact of the decision in this sector.

The trade imbalance between China and Africa, which amounts to more than $100 billion in favor of Beijing, also raises questions about the actual size of the benefit.

Instant application and initial gains

The effects of the policy began to appear quickly as shipments of South African apples, Egyptian oranges and Kenyan avocados entered the Chinese market duty-free, generating significant savings for exporters and a drop in final prices of up to 20%.

Intertwined economic and political dimensions

This move reflects China’s desire to strengthen its influence within the continent, but at the same time it remains conditional on an African structural reality that relies more on exporting raw materials than manufactured products.

The “zero tariff” policy seems like a promising opportunity, but it is not a magic solution, as its real impact depends on the ability of African countries to increase production, develop industries, and improve their competitiveness in the Chinese and global markets.