China has initiated a 100 percent tariff exemption for least developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations. With this step, China has become the first major developing country and major economy to implement such a policy on this scale. The new regulation aims to address the development needs of countries in the Global South, particularly African nations.
Christopher Mutsvangwa from Zimbabwe praised China’s move, emphasizing its potential to boost trade with Africa and further open the Chinese market. He noted the growing interest of Chinese consumers in African agricultural products, highlighting that Zimbabwean oranges have already entered the Chinese market and expressing hope for sesame and other products to achieve similar success in the future.
Rabenja Claudio from Madagascar stated that agricultural goods, textiles, seafood, and handicrafts from his country would benefit from China’s tariff exemptions. He added that policies such as tariff exemptions, support for cross-border e-commerce, and platforms like expos offer immense growth opportunities for African businesses.
At the 7th China International Import Expo last month, over 120 free booths were provided for special agricultural products from African nations. Honey from Tanzania and mutton from Madagascar were showcased, paving the way for these products to enter the Chinese market. China’s policy is seen as a strong driver for agricultural modernization and economic development in Africa, while also aiming to enhance China-Africa cooperation and encourage more nations in the Global South to pursue modernization together.