In a significant move to deepen trade and economic cooperation, China has announced it will grant zero-tariff access on all tariff lines for 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. The announcement was made at the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), held in Changsha.
South Africa was represented by the newly appointed Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola. The meeting focused on accelerating the implementation of outcomes from the 2024 FOCAC Summit and strengthening collaboration in trade, industrial development, and cooperation across various sectors.
Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s long-standing commitment to African development, pledging zero-tariff treatment for 100% of tariff lines to all least developed countries with diplomatic ties to Beijing. The initiative aims to bolster economic growth and promote balanced, inclusive development among Global South nations.
“China remains Africa’s largest trading partner for the 16th consecutive year,” said a spokesperson from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, underscoring the long-standing economic relationship.
In addition to the tariff pledge, China outlined five key initiatives to advance high-quality China-Africa cooperation. These include enhancing solidarity among developing nations, advocating for free trade, expanding industrial chain collaboration, promoting cultural exchange, and boosting development-focused partnerships.
Speaking from Changsha, Minister Lamola said South Africa’s presence at FOCAC reflects Pretoria’s commitment to strengthening both bilateral and multilateral relations. “Our participation in this platform is about deepening cooperation with China and enhancing South-South collaboration,” he noted.
The tariff exemption is expected to significantly ease trade flows for African exporters and further cement China's role as a central player in Africa’s development agenda.