China removes tariffs on imports from across Africa

China has declared its plan to eliminate tariffs on imports from all African nations with which it has diplomatic ties. This move aims to enhance trade relations with Africa, particularly in light of rising trade tensions with the United States.

The announcement was made during a China-Africa cooperation meeting and comes as African nations brace for potential increases in U.S. tariffs on their exports.

For the past 15 years, China has been Africa’s largest trading partner, importing approximately $170 billion worth of African goods in 2023. This new initiative builds on an agreement from last year to remove tariffs on products from 33 African countries categorized as “less developed.”

Notable countries involved include Nigeria and South Africa

The broadened agreement now encompasses some of China’s biggest trading partners in Africa, like South Africa and Nigeria. However, an effective date for this decision has yet to be announced.

Eswatini is the sole exception, as it does not participate in the zero-tariff program due to its diplomatic recognition of Taiwan as an independent nation, which Beijing regards as a breakaway province.

China already imports substantial quantities of raw materials from Africa, with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Guinea being primary suppliers.

US Trade Protectionism Accusations

Participants at the meeting criticized the unilateral tariffs imposed by certain countries, implicitly referencing the United States. They urged the U.S. to address trade disputes with principles of “equality, respect, and mutual benefit.”

Potential New US Tariffs

This development from Beijing follows new tariffs announced in April by President Donald Trump on various imports to the U.S., including goods from African nations. These tariffs impose 50% on Lesotho, 30% on South Africa, and 14% on Nigeria.

The implementation of these measures has been postponed until next month, with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessend indicating that further delays might be considered for countries negotiating “in good faith.”

In 2024, the U.S. imported $39.5 billion in goods from Africa, some of which benefitted from the zero-duty Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), a status now uncertain if the announced tariffs are enforced.