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IOL News
2 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Zero Tariffs, Infinite Trust: How China's Bold Trade Move Redefines Africa's Future
Discover how China's groundbreaking zero-tariff policy for African nations not only fosters economic growth but also strengthens diplomatic ties, paving the way for a prosperous future. Pictured is South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Image: Presidency By Michael Andisile Mayalo In a time when global economic uncertainty and geopolitical friction dominate headlines, China and Africa are offering a refreshing alternative: partnership, solidarity, and shared prosperity. The latest chapter in this evolving friendship came with an announcement that is as historic as it is strategic-China will grant zero-tariff treatment to 100% of taxable products from all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. This remarkable initiative, announced during the June 2025 Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), is more than just a trade policy—it is a powerful expression of trust, mutual respect, and forward-looking cooperation. Chinese President Xi Jinping's congratulatory letter to the meeting set the tone for this moment of renewed commitment. In his message, he emphasised that China and Africa are 'good friends, good partners, and good brothers,' bound by shared aspirations and common goals. He praised the success of the ten cooperation actions agreed upon during the 2024 Beijing Summit of FOCAC and reaffirmed China's pledge to accelerate the building of a China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era. President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of the Congo echoed these sentiments, affirming that the deep friendship between Africa and China is rooted in solidarity, mutual benefit, and a clear-eyed vision of long-term progress. Their messages were not ceremonial-they were statements of intent backed by concrete action. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ A Win-Win Solution for Africa's Economic Aspirations The zero-tariff policy is especially significant because it comes at a time when African nations are striving to boost industrial capacity, diversify exports, and secure greater integration into global markets. Removing tariffs on all African exports to China opens an enormous door of opportunity for value-added products, manufactured goods, and agricultural items to reach one of the world's largest and most dynamic consumer bases. As noted in the recent China Daily piece, African leaders increasingly see China as a preferred and reliable development partner. This policy confirms why: it places no political conditions, imposes no pressure, and offers real, market-driven solutions to real development needs. China's approach is empowering. Rather than offering short-term aid, it is building sustainable economic linkages. Countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, Ethiopia, South Africa, and Senegal, which are developing robust manufacturing sectors, will now find it easier to export competitively to China. But perhaps even more crucially, least-developed countries across the continent stand to benefit the most, as their exports gain immediate and unrestricted access. The Changsha Declaration: A Shared Voice for the Global South This bold trade step was matched diplomatically by the release of the China-Africa Changsha Declaration on Upholding Solidarity and Cooperation of the Global South. Signed by representatives from all 53 African nations, the African Union, and China, the declaration reaffirms the commitment to multilateralism and cooperation in an increasingly fragmented world. The declaration calls for a stronger collective voice in international affairs, and explicitly states opposition to unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying. It aligns perfectly with the zero-tariff decision-not as an isolated gesture, but as part of a broader effort to support inclusive globalization where developing nations play a central role. By supporting each other's core interests and respecting each other's development paths, China and Africa are demonstrating what modern diplomacy and fair trade can look like when rooted in equality. A Track Record of Delivery and Trust This is not the first time China has placed Africa at the centre of its global strategy. For 16 consecutive years, China has been Africa's largest trading partner. From the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) to massive infrastructure projects, industrial parks, and clean energy investment, China's presence has been transformative across the continent. The zero-tariff initiative builds on these foundations. It gives African producers, farmers, and manufacturers the confidence to invest, expand, and compete. It also complements China's long-standing commitment to capacity-building, including thousands of scholarships, technical exchanges, and digital technology partnerships. This is not just trade-it is economic empowerment. At the June 11, 2025, press conference, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian reaffirmed that China will continue to strengthen economic cooperation with Africa, prioritise the implementation of FOCAC outcomes, and ensure that African voices are heard in global affairs. He stated that China is ready to work with African friends to "deepen practical cooperation and deliver more tangible results to the African people." That promise is already being kept. A Friendship That Sets a Global Example What sets this China-Africa partnership apart is its consistency. It is not driven by short-term headlines or geopolitical competition-it is built on long-term alignment and mutual respect. China sees Africa not just as a market or resource base, but as a strategic partner and friend. There is an authenticity to the relationship that resonates with African nations. China does not dictate political systems or demand policy changes. Instead, it listens, collaborates, and builds. That is why, time and again, African leaders praise China's development model and diplomatic approach. And the public feels it too. African perceptions of China remain overwhelmingly positive, driven by real-life impacts-new roads, better hospitals, growing exports, and increased educational access. This kind of people-centered development is where diplomacy meets everyday life. Looking Ahead: Prosperity Through Partnership As we look to the future, the zero-tariff initiative is a gateway to deeper economic integration, industrialization, and mutual prosperity. It sends a clear message: China believes in Africa's potential, and is backing that belief with action. By eliminating barriers and encouraging African exports, China is proving that global trade can be fair, inclusive, and truly win-win. In an era defined by challenges, the China-Africa relationship is a beacon of what cooperation should look like-visionary, respectful, and full of promise. * Michael Andisile Mayalo is an independent commentator and writer ** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL, Independent Media or The African.
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
China to remove tariffs on African imports to boost trade
China says it will sign a new economic pact with Africa that will get rid of all tariffs on the 53 African states it has diplomatic ties with – a move that could benefit middle-income nations as they prepare for tariff hikes on products entering the United States. The move, announced at a China-Africa co-operation meeting (FOCAC) in Changsha, central China, comes as the continent faces the possibility of increased tariffs on its products entering the US. The Asian economic giant already offers duty- and quota-free market access to least developed countries (LDCs), including 53 countries in Africa, but the new initiative will level the playing field by also offering middle-income countries similar market access. Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) is the only African country excluded from the zero-tariff deal. It maintains diplomatic ties with Taiwan, whereas China regards it as a breakaway province. The timing of Beijing's decision is significant. In April, President Donald Trump announced high tariffs on its imports from many countries, including a 50 percent rate for Lesotho, 30 percent for South Africa and 14 percent for Nigeria. Read more on RFI EnglishRead also:China courts African allies as tensions with Europe, US deepenFrance pushing for 'China-EU leadership' on climate to counter US withdrawalKenyan president visits China as country pivots away from the US
The Star
7 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Interview: China-Africa expo highlights deepening economic ties, says Zimbabwean expert
HARARE, June 13 (Xinhua) -- The ongoing China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE) showcases the deepening economic ties between China and Africa and serves as a platform for advancing pragmatic, mutually beneficial cooperation, a policy expert told Xinhua on Friday. "The ongoing CAETE shows that China and Africa can work together to develop pragmatic solutions that will enhance cooperation and mutual benefit, while enhancing sustainable development and modernization in Africa," Munetsi Madakufamba, executive director of the Southern African Research and Documentation Center, a Zimbabwe-based think tank, told Xinhua in a written interview. Noting that trade between China and Africa has expanded significantly since the inception of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2000, Madakufamba said platforms such as CAETE help further deepen trade, drive Africa's industrialization and narrow trade disparities. "Africa aspires not only to import finished goods but also to develop its manufacturing sector, which requires the development of infrastructure and machinery to produce finished goods," he said, adding that Africa welcomes China to establish more manufacturing hubs in Africa to facilitate the continent's modernization and industrialization. Such cooperation, he added, would allow Africa to leapfrog with cutting-edge technology and build robust industrial capacity, while creating new trade and investment opportunities for both sides. Besides strengthening economic and trade relations, Madakufamba said that the expo also aligns with the 10 partnership action plans proposed at last year's FOCAC summit. During a ministerial meeting in Changsha city ahead of the expo, China announced plans to extend zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines to all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic ties. Madakufamba praised this commitment as a major step forward in boosting trade and deepening Sino-African cooperation. "In today's environment characterized by trade wars and worldwide tariff impositions by the United States, the CAETE presents a platform for pragmatic solutions that have the potential to balance global trade," he said, noting that engaging with African entrepreneurs and innovators is essential to address the unique demands of the African market. The expo is further evidence of China's commitment to economic globalization, multilateralism, and the sharing of development gains with the world, he added.
IOL News
13-06-2025
- Business
- IOL News
China to remove import tariffs on goods from South Africa and 52 Other African nations
South Africa's largest trading partner China has pledged to eliminate import tariffs on goods from all 53 African nations Image: Presidency South Africa's largest trading partner China has pledged to eliminate import tariffs on goods from all 53 African nations with which it has formal diplomatic ties. The announcement was made during the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators for the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), held in Changsha earlier this week. According to the official Changsha Declaration, China intends to expand zero-tariff treatment to cover 100 % of tariff lines for African countries. "China is ready to negotiate and sign the agreement and signing the agreement of China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development, expand the zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines to all 53 African countries having diplomatic relations with China, or all African countries except Eswatini, to welcome quality products from Africa to the Chinese market. "For the least developed countries in Africa, on top of the zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines announced at the 2024 Beijing Summit of FOCAC, China will roll out measures on market access, inspection and quarantine, and customs clearance to boost trade in goods, enhance skills and technical training, and expand the promotion of quality products. The declaration also noted that the "the frequent occurrence of unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying has severely hindered economic and social development and improved livelihoods in African countries". Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Last month, US President Donald Trump announced a 10% tariff on all imports to the US, along with additional reciprocal tariffs for several countries, including a 30% tariff on South African goods. However, he later paused these higher tariffs for 90 days for most countries, except China, which faced a 145% tariff. IOL also previously reported that The future of South Africa's trade benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) remains uncertain, as the relationship between South Africa and the US continues to worsen. Wandile sihlobo chief economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz), said the move by the Chinese government to lower tariffs would benefit the agricultural sector in the country. "We are yet to receive more details on China's intentions to lower import tariffs for various African countries. What is worth emphasising for now is that, from a South African agricultural perspective, this would be a welcome development," he said. "China has a profound importance in global agriculture. In 2023, China was a leading importer, accounting for 11% of global agricultural imports, with imports valued at US$218 billion,". IOL Business Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel
Zawya
13-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ambassador Anne Lafortune represents Seychelles at the Forum on China-Africa Coordination (FOCAC) Coordinators meeting in Changsha
On Wednesday 11th June 2025, Ambassador Anne Lafortune, the Seychelles Resident Ambassador in Beijing, People's Republic of China, attended the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Coordination (FOCAC) Summit, the latter was held in Beijing in September 2024. The meeting took stock of the current achievements since the 2024 FOCAC Summit, and discussed ways to advance the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and its Action Plan (2025-2027), which outlined China-Africa cooperation for the three years. The platform, which will commemorate its 25th anniversary since its establishment in October 2000, remains an important mechanism of collaboration between China and African nations, focusing on a win-win partnership and mutual prosperity. In her statement, Ambassador Lafortune reaffirmed Seychelles' commitment to the implementation of the principles and objectives of the FOCAC, which continue to unlock Africa's full potential. She commended President Xi's ten (10) partnership actions announced in September 2024, which responded to the evolving and distinct development needs of African countries. She also stated that 'Seychelles is proud to be part of this transformative endeavour'. She further emphasised that as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Seychelles values the support of the Government of China, which aligns closely with its national development strategy. Highlighting the excellent Sino-Seychelles relations, which have flourished over the years, creating pathways for sustainable growth and development, as the two countries near the significant milestone of 50 years of diplomatic ties next year. Ambassador Lafortune will also attend the special sessions of the Fourth China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE), under the theme 'China and Africa: Together Towards Modernisation', supporting the economic and trade initiatives defined in the Ten Partnership Action. The Expo Ambassador Lafortune is accompanied by Ms. Wendy Isnard, Director of Bilateral Affairs in the Foreign Affairs Department and other staff from the Seychelles Embassy in Beijing. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Republic of Seychelles.
