Question: Some commentators claim that China’s zero-tariff policy for all 53 African countries having diplomatic relations with China is intended to further expand China’s influence in Africa through “economic penetration.” What is China’s response?

Embassy Spokesperson: China has always firmly upheld the norms governing international relations and true multilateralism. In the process of negotiating free trade-oriented agreements on economic partnership for shared development with African countries having diplomatic relations with China other than the least developed countries, China has adopted flexible and innovative approaches in accordance with relevant WTO principles and rules, and in light of Africa’s overall lower level of development and the practical difficulties of negotiating agreements country by country. Taking the lead in proactively implementing comprehensive tariff reductions is therefore a phased and pioneering arrangement constituting a special preferential policy towards African countries.

Here, I would like to emphasise the following points:

First, China’s zero-tariff policy towards Africa will not only facilitate China-Africa trade and investment cooperation and help promote foreign trade and economic growth in African countries, but also contribute to building a fairer global trading system and help counter the tide of de-globalisation while restoring international confidence in multilateral trade. This initiative provides a new model and pathway for international economic cooperation and will inject greater certainty and positive energy into global peace and development. China will continue, in line with the principles of equality, consultation and mutual benefit, to properly implement the zero-tariff measures, advance negotiations on the agreements on economic partnership for shared development with African countries, deepen institutional economic and trade cooperation between China and Africa, and share opportunities and pursue common development with African countries.

Second, China’s zero-tariff policy towards Africa is non-exclusive. We welcome developed countries to join China in responding actively to initiatives proposed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres concerning Africa’s development, including introducing measures such as zero tariffs to support Africa’s development and modernisation process.

Third, 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of the opening of diplomatic relations between China and Africa. China and Africa enjoy profound traditional friendship that has withstood the test of changing international circumstances. China has always regarded strengthening solidarity and cooperation with African countries as an important cornerstone of its foreign policy. China will work with Africa to steadily implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of FOCAC and carefully plan for the future development of the Forum. Together, China and Africa will use the “golden key” of solidarity and cooperation to open the “door to the future” of common development. Through Chinese modernisation, China will support Africa’s development and revitalisation and contribute China-Africa strength to the solidarity and self-reliance of the Global South and to the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.