China has introduced a transformative zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Africa, and Ghana, as part of the Changsha Declaration, reinforcing economic collaboration through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). This initiative aims to boost African exports and deepen ties in a shifting global economic landscape.
Bolstering China-Africa Partnership
Following a high-level meeting in Changsha with African foreign ministers, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the full implementation of the zero-tariff scheme, building on commitments from the 2024 Beijing FOCAC Summit. The summit focused on forging a resilient China-Africa partnership to address global challenges.
A joint statement from China, 53 African nations, and the African Union Commission emphasized their shared vision for an “all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future.” The declaration highlighted the rising influence of the Global South and called for cooperation to advance development, multilateralism, and equitable global governance. It also condemned increasing unilateralism, protectionism, and economic coercion, urging countries—particularly the United States—to resolve trade disputes through dialogue and mutual respect.
Details of the Zero-Tariff Initiative
The zero-tariff policy applies to 100% of tariff lines for all 53 African countries with diplomatic relations with China, excluding Eswatini due to its lack of formal ties. This opens China’s vast market to African goods, including agricultural products from Kenya and Ethiopia, minerals from South Africa, and manufactured goods from Nigeria and Ghana.
For Africa’s least developed countries, such as Uganda, Malawi, and Sierra Leone, the scheme includes enhanced market access, streamlined customs and inspection processes, and technical training to facilitate trade. These measures aim to remove barriers and drive economic growth across diverse African economies.
Comprehensive Support for Development
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed the urgent need for global action to address Africa’s economic and developmental challenges. It called for increased international aid to support poverty reduction, infrastructure projects, and sustainable growth, rather than reductions in assistance.
In alignment with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, China committed to supporting modernization and sustainability. Key initiatives include:
- China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development: Expanding cooperation in green industries, e-commerce, and technology across countries like Rwanda and Morocco.
- Innovation and Technology: Strengthening collaboration in artificial intelligence, finance, and legal frameworks, with pilot programs in Algeria and Senegal.
- Cultural Ties: Launching the “2026 Year of People-to-People Exchanges” to foster cultural connections in nations like Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire.
African Leaders Embrace Partnership
At the 2024 Beijing FOCAC Summit, leaders from Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa signed bilateral agreements with China. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu described the partnership as a “testament to mutual respect.” Kenyan President William Ruto highlighted opportunities for agricultural exports, while South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized mining and infrastructure deals. Foreign ministers, including Nigeria’s Yusuf Tuggar and Ethiopia’s Taye Atske Selassie, confirmed that these agreements, covering trade, infrastructure, and technology, are advancing.
Global Implications Amid Trade Tensions
The zero-tariff policy comes as global trade faces uncertainty, with US President Donald Trump’s recent tariff threats adding volatility. China’s initiative positions it as a key ally for African nations, offering an alternative to Western trade frameworks. Analysts view this as a strategic move to enhance China’s influence in the Global South while providing African countries like Zambia, Angola, and Tunisia with critical market access to drive growth.
The Changsha Declaration and zero-tariff policy mark a pivotal moment in China-Africa relations, with the potential to reshape trade dynamics and foster sustainable development across the continent.
AFP
