A shipment of 252 metric tons of palm kernel shell activated carbon from Nigeria has become the first import into the Hainan Free Trade Port to benefit from China’s expanded zero-tariff policy for African countries, marking a significant milestone in China-Africa trade relations.
Haikou Customs announced on Wednesday that the Nigerian consignment is the first to enter the Hainan Free Trade Port under the preferential tariff arrangement, which came into effect on May 1, 2026.
The policy grants zero tariffs on imports from all 53 African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China, creating fresh opportunities for African nations to expand exports, accelerate industrialization and strengthen economic resilience amid growing global protectionism.
The latest measure builds on China’s existing trade preferences for Africa. Since December 1, 2024, China has eliminated tariffs on 100 percent of tariff lines for 33 African least developed countries (LDCs). Under the new arrangement, the remaining 20 African countries that are not classified as LDCs will also enjoy zero tariffs through a preferential tariff rate for an initial period of two years.
Chinese authorities said the transitional arrangement will pave the way for the signing of the China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development agreement with participating African countries. Once concluded, the agreement will institutionalize the zero-tariff policy as a long-term framework for bilateral trade.
The Ministry of Commerce of China said the expanded tariff-free access is expected to encourage greater investment by Chinese and international businesses in Africa by bringing capital, technology, equipment and management expertise to support local processing of African products. Officials believe the initiative will promote value addition on the continent while making China-Africa trade more balanced and sustainable.
China remains Africa’s largest trading partner. According to the General Administration of Customs of China, bilateral trade reached a record 348 billion U.S. dollars in 2025. China’s imports from Africa totaled 123 billion U.S. dollars, representing a 5.4 percent year-on-year increase, underscoring the steady expansion of economic ties between China and the African continent.
