By Abiola Olawale
Chinese President Xi Jinping announced Saturday that China will eliminate all import tariffs for 53 African nations starting May 1, 2026.
The announcement, delivered via a congratulatory message to the 39th African Union (AU) Summit in Ethiopia, marks a significant expansion of Beijing’s trade policy.
While China previously offered duty-free access to 33 of the continent’s least developed countries (LDCs), this new directive extends the zero-tariff treatment to nearly every nation on the continent.
State media reported Saturday that the zero-tariff policy will apply to all African nations that maintain diplomatic relations with China, except Eswatini, which recognises Taiwan.
Xi said the decision would “undoubtedly provide new opportunities for African development,” announcing the implementation date as African leaders gathered in Ethiopia for the annual summit of the African Union.
Trade and geopolitical implications China remains Africa’s largest trading partner and a major financier of infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.
The tariff removal is expected to expand African exports, particularly agricultural and raw materials into the Chinese market, while strengthening Beijing’s influence across the continent.
The policy also reflects shifting global trade dynamics after former United States President Donald Trump imposed sweeping tariffs worldwide last year, pushing several African economies to diversify trade partnerships.
The exclusion of Eswatini underscores Beijing’s long-standing position that countries must cut official ties with Taiwan to access certain economic benefits. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out forceful reunification.
