China Removes Tariffs on 98% of African LDC Imports
Since December 1, 2024, China applies zero tariffs on all imports from 33 African least developed countries, significantly reducing trade costs and improving market access.
Historic Trade Policy Shift
In a landmark decision that promises to reshape African-Chinese trade relations, China has eliminated tariffs on 98% of imports from 33 African least developed countries (LDCs), effective December 1, 2024. This unprecedented move marks one of the most significant trade policy changes in recent African economic history.
Impact on African Economies
The tariff elimination covers a wide range of products including agricultural commodities, textiles, minerals, and manufactured goods. For African exporters, this translates to immediate cost savings and enhanced competitiveness in the Chinese market, which represents the world's second-largest economy.
Countries benefiting from this policy include Ethiopia, Guinea, Rwanda, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and 27 other African LDCs. The policy is expected to boost bilateral trade, which already reached $295.6 billion in 2024, representing a 4.8% year-on-year growth.
Opportunities for Exporters
African businesses now have unprecedented access to China's vast consumer market without the burden of import duties. This creates opportunities for:
- Agricultural producers to export coffee, cocoa, fruits, and vegetables
- Textile manufacturers to supply the Chinese fashion industry
- Mining companies to export processed minerals
- Small and medium enterprises to access new markets
Compliance Requirements
While tariffs have been eliminated, exporters must still comply with standard import requirements including:
- Certificate of Origin proving the goods originate from eligible LDC countries
- Phytosanitary certificates for agricultural products
- Quality compliance documentation
- Standard customs declarations
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework complements this initiative by facilitating smoother intra-African trade, allowing countries to aggregate products before export to China.
Economic Projections
Trade analysts project that this tariff elimination could increase African exports to China by 15-20% annually over the next five years. The policy particularly benefits landlocked countries that previously struggled with high trade costs.
Looking Ahead
This policy represents China's commitment to South-South cooperation and aligns with broader initiatives to strengthen economic ties with Africa. It comes as part of China's broader strategy to deepen engagement with developing nations and support sustainable development goals.
For African businesses, now is the time to explore opportunities in the Chinese market, establish trade relationships, and scale up production to meet potential demand. Governments and trade promotion agencies are working to help exporters understand and leverage these new opportunities.