📈 China Grants Zero-Tariff Access to 53 African States

China will fully implement a zero-tariff policy for 53 African nations starting 1 May 2026. The move, announced during the African Union Summit, aims to deepen trade ties and facilitate "green channels" for African exports. • Global Trade Impact: The policy removes duties on 100% of tariff lines for countries with diplomatic ties to Beijing. This is a significant expansion from previous measures that primarily covered Least Developed Countries (LDCs). • Key Sector Shifts: While African exports are currently dominated by raw materials, the new policy and Economic Partnership Agreements are designed to boost value-added goods, including: • Agriculture: Enhanced access for coffee, seafood, and fruits. • Manufacturing: Incentives for Chinese firms to relocate light manufacturing to Africa for duty-free re-export to China. • Regional Context for Sri Lanka: As a competitor in the Chinese market for tea, seafood, and apparel & textiles, Sri Lankan exporters may face increased price competition from African counterparts. However, Sri Lanka is currently bolstering its own position via the Trusted Trader programme and the upcoming Sri Lanka Expo 2026.