Starting May 1, 2026, China has fully implemented a zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations. At midnight on the 1st, the Shenzhen Bay Port processed the nation's first import shipment under the new measure. A consignment of 24 tons of apples originating from South Africa passed through rapid customs inspection and supervision by Shenzhen Customs and will be distributed to major supermarkets and fruit and vegetable wholesale markets across the country. The tariff on these imported South African apples has been reduced from 10% to zero, significantly enhancing the product's cost competitiveness. This zero-tariff initiative follows a similar major policy implemented on December 1, 2024, when China granted zero-tariff treatment to all least developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations, including 33 African LDCs. The move is expected to provide strong impetus for trade, investment cooperation, and development between China and Africa.
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