International trade: China to remove customs duties for African countries
As of May 1, China will apply a total exemption from customs duties to imports from all African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. Only Eswatini will remain excluded from this measure, due to its official links with Taiwan.
Chinese President Xi Jinping announced on February 14 the total elimination of customs duties for African countries from May 1. This decision will help strengthen economic relations between China and the African continent. Until now, Beijing applied a policy of zero customs duties for imports from thirty-three African countries. Last year, the Chinese authorities indicated their intention to extend this measure to all of their diplomatic partners in Africa, i.e. fifty-three states.
China is today the largest trading partner of the African continent. Beyond trade, it plays a key role in the financing and construction of major infrastructure (roads, ports, railways or power plants), particularly as part of its “New Silk Roads” initiative.
By removing tariffs, Beijing seeks to further boost African exports to its domestic market and consolidate its economic and diplomatic influence in Africa.
This announcement comes in a context of reorganization of global trade. Since US President Donald Trump imposed high tariffs last year, several African countries have stepped up trade with China and other trading partners. The Chinese decision could thus strengthen the attractiveness of its market for African economies, while consolidating its strategic position.
