CHINA’S DUTY-FREE ACCESS TO AFRICA AND ITS ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS

INTRODUCTION

During the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) meetings, the Chinese government announced that it will grant full duty-free access to exports from 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. This new policy, unveiled by President Xi Jinping, significantly expands the scope of duty-free access, previously limited to 33 least-developed African countries (LDCs), to now include 53 nations. Now, except for eSwatini, every African nation that has formal ties with Beijing will enjoy zero tariffs across all product lines. This move underscores China’s broader strategy to deepen trade and economic engagement with Africa by removing longstanding market access barriers.

Beyond tariff elimination, China is also introducing practical trade facilitation measures such as streamlined customs procedures, clearer inspection and quarantine standards, and targeted support for African exporters. The initiative includes commitments to train African trade personnel and boost the visibility of African products within the Chinese consumer market, thereby enhancing the continent’s integration into global value chains.

POLICY OVERVIEW AND IMPLICATIONS

China’s move can be seen as both economic and geopolitical; aimed at expanding markets for Chinese goods and services, securing access to raw materials, and strengthening supply chain stability. It also reflects a broader strategy to deepen its influence and footprint across Africa, positioning itself as the continent’s preferred trade and development partner. This aligns with its Belt and Road Initiative, which seeks to enhance infrastructure and connectivity across Asia and Africa. By reinforcing economic ties with Africa, China is strategically positioning itself as a key player in the continent’s development narrative.

Furthermore, China also holds a dominant position in the global critical mineral supply chain, with a significant portion of its imports from Africa consisting of fossil fuels, metals, and critical minerals resources in which Africa is abundantly endowed.

BALANCE OF TRADE DATA AND EVIDENCE FROM CURRENT DUTY-FREE BENEFICIARIES

Following the duty-free waivers granted to 33 least-developed African countries (LDCs) last year, trade between China and Africa reached $134.16 billion in the first five months of 2025, according to China’s General Administration of Customs. This represents a 12.4% increase compared to the same period in 2024. During this period, Chinese exports to Africa rose by 20.2% to $83.51 billion, while imports from Africa increased by just 1.6%, totaling $50.65 billion.

As a result, Africa’s trade deficit with China widened to $32.86 billion, with declining global commodity prices continuing to affect the continent’s export revenues.

China’s key imports from Africa remain concentrated in crude oil, critical minerals such as cobalt and copper, and agricultural commodities like cocoa and sesame. However, the Chinese market also shows demand for niche finished products, including leather goods, textiles, processed foods, and fashion items.

Despite duty-free access, African LDCs have not significantly closed up the gap in the trade imbalance. While trade volumes have grown, exports have remained largely focused on raw materials and low-value goods. Click here to read more or download pdf file

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