China will eliminate tariffs on imports from 53 African countries starting May 1, 2025, to promote trade, with the exception of Eswatini, which recognizes Taiwan.
In a significant move to enhance trade relations between China and Africa, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that China will abolish tariffs on imports from 53 African nations starting May 1, 2025. This decision marks a crucial step towards bolstering economic ties, as it expands an existing zero-tariff policy that previously applied to 33 countries. The only exception to this new policy is Eswatini, which remains excluded due to its diplomatic recognition of Taiwan, a territory that China considers a breakaway province.
The implications of this tariff abolition are substantial, as China-Africa trade has already reached impressive figures, amounting to $222 billion in early 2025. Analysts suggest that the removal of these tariffs may further stimulate trade momentum, leading to increased economic activities and investment opportunities within African markets. The move is aligned with China's broader strategy to solidify its economic influence across the African continent, especially as many African nations are seeking to diversify their trade partnerships.
Furthermore, this announcement can be seen in the context of the ongoing geopolitical landscape, where China's relationships with African countries are increasingly vital. By fostering a tariff-free trading environment, China aims to strengthen its ties with the continent amid global competition for resources and influence. This policy shift could encourage greater participation of African nations in global trade networks, although it also raises questions about the dependency on Chinese markets and the economic sovereignty of these nations.
