China to impose zero tariffs on all African countries with diplomatic relations

China will extend its zero-tariff regime to all African countries that have diplomatic relations with Beijing from May 1, 2026, Chinese authorities announced on Tuesday.

For the period from May 1, 2026 to April 30, 2028, China will grant zero tariffs in the form of preferential tariffs to 20 African countries that have diplomatic relations with China and are not classified as LDCs. This follows an announcement by the Tariff Commission under the State Council.

For products subject to tariff quotas, only in-quota rates will be reduced to zero, while out-of-quota rates will remain unchanged.

For the 33 least developed African countries with diplomatic relations, China has already imposed zero tariffs on 100 percent of tariff lines from December 1, 2024.

When the expanded policy comes into force, China will become the first major economy to grant full unilateral zero tariffs to all African countries with diplomatic relations, as well as to all LDCs with diplomatic relations.

The year 2026 also marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Africa. The Ministry of Commerce said it will work with relevant ministries on the basis of the principles of equal consultation and mutual benefit to ensure that the zero-tariff measures are properly implemented.

China also plans to continue negotiations to conclude economic partnership agreements aimed at joint development with African countries, with the aim of deepening institutional economic and trade cooperation and sharing opportunities to achieve common development.

CMG