China’s Trade Axis With Africa, Introduces Tariffs-Free Regime -By Kestér Kenn Klomegâh

An expanded policy of zero customs duties that China has introduced with respect to 53 African countries came into force from May 1st. The first batches of goods have already passed customs clearance in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), according to China Panorama reports.

A high-ranking official of the PRC’s Main Customs Administration (GTU) gave clarifications on the specific terms of the new regime, as following:

All products exported under tariff quotas from 53 African countries will be able to access the Chinese market duty-free for the next two years, until May 2028.

GTU PRC has created an online system for issuing certificates of origin of goods, which are transmitted to the China customs system in real time.

For goods with a low risk of spreading pests or pathogens, uniform import inspection and quarantine requirements are established.

For medium and high risk products, the PRC optimized quarantine access procedures. At the same time, priority is given to the evaluation of export documentation. Chinese specialists are conducting comprehensive assessments for commodities with similar risks and are increasingly applying remote mechanisms to speed up processes and reduce costs.

Previously from December 1, 2024, China provided a zero customs regime to 33 least developed African countries. It has now become the first major economy to offer unilateral full zero customs access for all African countries that have established diplomatic relations with China.