China Grants Zero-Tariff Access to 53 African Nations, Excludes Eswatini Over Taiwan Ties
Beijing – June 11, 2025
China has unveiled a new zero-tariff policy for exports from 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, further expanding its economic influence across the continent. Eswatini, the only African country that maintains formal ties with Taiwan, has been excluded from the arrangement—highlighting Beijing’s unwavering stance on its One China policy.
The announcement came after high-level bilateral discussions in Changsha, Hunan Province, involving Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and African officials. The details were formalised in a joint communiqué, positioning the initiative as a counterbalance to growing global trade protectionism.
Policy Aims to Boost Africa-China Trade Relations
China’s move offers duty-free access to a wide range of African exports, enhancing the export competitiveness of partner nations and deepening ties at a time when many African economies are seeking alternative markets and funding amid global uncertainties.
The joint statement explicitly criticised protectionist trade policies, particularly those imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, which include tariffs as high as 50% on imports from African nations such as Ghana, South Africa, Mauritius, Lesotho, Botswana, and Madagascar.
China Seeks Economic Gains Amid Domestic Challenges
China, facing economic slowdowns and softening domestic demand, is using trade diplomacy to relieve internal pressures and expand its geopolitical influence. By granting tariff exemptions, Beijing hopes to stimulate two-way trade and provide new market outlets for its state-owned enterprises.
This strategy aligns with China’s longstanding efforts to position itself as Africa’s top trade and investment partner, especially in infrastructure development and resource extraction. China is already the continent’s largest bilateral lender.
Strategic Diplomatic Implications
The exclusion of Eswatini underscores the diplomatic stakes involved. As the only African nation still aligned with Taiwan, Eswatini’s omission signals China’s use of economic policy to enforce geopolitical loyalty.
Meanwhile, African countries are expected to benefit from enhanced market access, potentially boosting exports in agriculture, mining, textiles, and other sectors—while also increasing their reliance on Beijing’s economic model.
The zero-tariff policy is being touted as a win-win approach by Chinese officials, promoting mutual development while offering an attractive alternative to Western trade frameworks, which many African leaders view as increasingly restrictive or conditional.
Please download our HOTDIGITAL ONLINE APP and follow HotDigital Online on our social media platforms to stay updated on our upcoming initiatives.
#HotDigitalHealthAwareness #CommunityHealth #GhanaNursesAssociationUK #HealthMatters #HotDigitalOnline #StrongerTogether
