China imports boost with 53 African nations tariff-free

China’s imports from Africa reached a record $123 billion in 2025. While traditionally dominated by raw materials like oil and minerals, a landmark policy shift effective May 1, 2026, has eliminated tariffs on imports from 53 African nations, specifically targeting the diversification into agricultural and processed goods.

As of today, May 1, 2026, China has expanded its zero-tariff treatment to cover all African countries. Look at this recent article from NIKKEI ASIA...

China will make imports from 53 African nations tariff-free in phases starting Friday. China has eliminated tariffs for 33 least developed countries in Africa since December 2024 and will extend this treatment to an additional 20 nations in a process set to run through April 2028.

The preferential treatment will apply to nearly all African countries, including large economies such as Nigeria and South Africa.

.... See more from NIKKEI ASIA here

Interesting that China recent policy: Zero-Tariff Expansion (May 2026) 

Initial Shipment: The first batch under this expanded policy—24 metric tons of South African apples—cleared customs in Shenzhen today, seeing its tariff drop from 10% to zero.

Key Beneficiaries: Products formerly facing tariffs of 8% to 30%, such as cocoa (Ivory Coast, Ghana), coffee and avocados (Kenya), and citrus fruits and wine (South Africa), are expected to become significantly more competitive.

Here is what is more interesting: Trade Dynamics & Challenges

Trade Imbalance: Although bilateral trade hit a record $348 billion in 2025, China's exports to Africa ($225 billion) grew five times faster than its imports from the continent, widening the trade deficit for African nations.

Infrastructure & Standards: While tariffs are removed, African exporters still face hurdles such as strict sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) rules and limited local processing infrastructure.

Geopolitical Context: Analysts view the zero-tariff move as a strategic counter to rising Western protectionism, positioning China as a more open partner for the Global South.

Here are the details to start The process of bring African products into Chinese market. 

Bringing African products into the Chinese market involves navigating a structured compliance framework. As of May 1, 2026, the process for many products is significantly improved by the new zero-tariff policy covering 53 African nations.

Step 1: Product Classification & Market Access

Before shipping, you must determine if your specific product is allowed to enter China.

Check Market Access: Not all agricultural products from every country are permitted. You must verify if a bilateral protocol (e.g., for Kenyan avocados or South African apples) exists between your country and China's General Administration of Customs (GACC).

Determine HS Code: Use China’s 13-digit HS code system (different from the standard 8-digit system) to classify your goods. This code determines the specific regulatory requirements and confirms your eligibility for zero tariffs.

Step 2: Mandatory GACC Registration (For Food & Ag) 

Since 2022, all overseas food manufacturers must be registered with the GACC before their goods can clear customs.

High-Risk Categories: Products like meat, seafood, and dairy require recommendation from your national "competent authority" (e.g., KEPHIS in Kenya or NAFDAC in Nigeria).

Low-Risk Categories: Other foods can often be registered directly by the manufacturer via the CIFER online system.

Registration Number: Once approved, you receive a GACC registration number that must be printed on both the inner and outer packaging of your products.

Step 3: Quality & Sanitary Standards (SPS)

Compliance with Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures is the most frequent hurdle for African exporters.

Inspections: Agricultural goods must meet strict phytosanitary standards, which may include specific orchard management, pest control records, and chemical residue testing.

Green Lanes: For certain agricultural products, China has established "green lanes" to streamline inspection and speed up clearance at Chinese ports.

Step 4: Documentation & Customs Clearance

Once the goods arrive in China, the importer must submit a declaration through the China Single Window. Required documents typically include:

Certificate of Origin: Crucial to prove the goods are from an eligible African country to claim zero tariffs.

• Commercial Invoice & Packing List.
• Bill of Lading or Airway Bill.
• Health/Phytosanitary Certificates issued by your national authority.
• GACC Registration Number (for food products)

Summary of Costs & Support

While the Import Tariff is now 0% for most African nations, other costs still apply, such as Value-Added Tax (VAT), consumption tax (for luxury items), and local coordination fees.

Organizations like Africa Reimagined and Standard Bank offer specialized consulting to help African brands navigate these onboarding and logistics procedures.

Are you looking for the competent Chinese importers in your specific products to start the imports to China registration process, or do you have a particular product in mind? 

China.org actively support global suppliers exporting products or services to China, our focus at this very moment is on African nations, it is the priority.

therefore, to support African suppliers exporting products or services into China by providing certified Chinese Importers Lists with authentic details. 

Allow companies to engage with their target sector in the Chinese market, reach strongest matches between suppliers and importers in tangible way.

Seeking useful business support, to contact China.org here.