Overview
- The zero-tariff policy, which expanded Friday to 20 more African states, now covers 53 countries with diplomatic ties to Beijing and excludes Eswatini.
- A first shipment of 24 tonnes of South African apples cleared Shenzhen duty-free, saving about 20,000 yuan after a previous 10% levy.
- The program runs until April 2028 and keeps carve-outs for goods that are controlled by import quotas.
- China reports record Africa trade of $348.08 billion in 2025, with first-quarter 2026 flows up 26.8% year over year.
- The move comes as the United States warns of steep tariffs on China, with President Donald Trump threatening a 50% rate in certain scenarios.