China To Implement Zero-tariff Scheme For Nigeria And 52 Other African Countries

China has declared the complete rollout of a zero-tariff policy for 53 African nations, including Nigeria, under the Changsha Declaration, further solidifying economic connections within the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

The announcement, issued by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, came after a high-level gathering of Chinese officials and African foreign ministers in Changsha. The initiative builds on pledges made during the 2024 Beijing Summit of FOCAC, which emphasized fostering a robust China-Africa partnership in a swiftly changing global environment.

According to a statement issued following the meeting, representatives from China, 53 African countries, and the African Union Commission reaffirmed their dedication to establishing an “all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.”

The declaration emphasized the growing prominence of the Global South and highlighted the significance of cooperation in promoting development, multilateralism, and fair global governance. It also condemned increasing unilateralism, protectionism, and economic coercion, urging nations, particularly the United States, to address trade disputes through mutual respect and dialogue.

The ministry underscored that African countries face urgent economic and developmental challenges requiring immediate international focus. It called for expanded development aid, rather than reductions, to bolster poverty alleviation and infrastructure development across the continent.

In a notable step, China pledged to extend zero-tariff treatment to 100 percent of tariff lines for all 53 African nations with diplomatic ties to Beijing, excluding Eswatini, which lacks formal diplomatic relations. This will enhance access for African products to the Chinese market.

For Africa’s least developed nations, the initiative includes improved market access measures, simplified inspection and customs processes, and expanded technical training and trade facilitation.

Furthermore, China committed to supporting the African Union’s Agenda 2063, with an emphasis on modernization and sustainable development. The Chinese government also unveiled plans to advance the China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development, deepen collaboration in green industries, e-commerce, science and technology, artificial intelligence, finance, and legal frameworks.

The statement also reiterated plans to enhance people-to-people connections, including initiatives such as the “2026 Year of People-to-People Exchanges.”

In September 2024, President Bola Tinubu signed five memoranda of understanding during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Speaking at the Beijing summit, Tinubu described the China-Africa relationship as a “true testament” to the strength of mutual respect and cooperation.

Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar later verified that the agreements signed with China are in various stages of implementation.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli