Nanyang Technological University in Singapore published on 28 January 2025 an article titled "China Grants Full Duty-free Access to 33 African Countries."
Thirty-three least developed countries in Africa can now export 100 percent of their products duty free to China, which has gradually expanded over the years the range of products eligible for zero-tariff treatment. In the most recent decision, China added 140 products that qualify.
In the past, however, these tariff exemptions have not significantly increased African exports to China as most of them are primary products such as minerals and oil. China exports mostly manufactured goods to Africa. As a result, Africa has a large trade deficit with China. Factors other than tariffs impact Africa's ability to export to China. African countries must develop greater processing and manufacturing capacity to export value added goods.
