February 14, New Delhi – Beijing will begin eliminating tariffs for all African countries except one, starting May 1, according to state media, quoting Chinese President Xi Jinping.
China already has a zero-tariff policy for imports from 33 African countries, but Beijing announced last year that it would extend the policy to all 53 of its diplomatic partners on the continent.
China is Africa's largest trading partner and a major supporter of major infrastructure projects in the region through its vast "Belt and Road" initiative.
Starting May 1, zero tariffs will apply to all African countries except Eswatini, which maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
President Xi stated that the zero-tariff deal "will undoubtedly provide new opportunities for African development."