China Drops Tariffs for 53 African Countries
China has announced a major tariff relief initiative aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with African nations.
Beginning in May, Beijing will eliminate import tariffs on goods from 53 African countries — excluding Eswatini — under a broadened zero-tariff policy. The announcement was made by Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday, February 14.
State media reports indicate that China already applies zero tariffs on imports from 33 African countries. The expanded plan will extend this duty-free access to 53 diplomatic partners across the continent. However, Eswatini will not be included, as it maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
China is Africa’s largest trading partner and a major supporter of infrastructure development on the continent through its Belt and Road Initiative. The new tariff policy is widely viewed as an effort to deepen cooperation, boost trade volumes, and reinforce China’s long-term strategic engagement with African economies.
