China Eliminates Tariffs for 52 African Nations, Leaving Eswatini Out

China has announced it will remove tariffs on imports from 52 African countries starting this Friday, expanding its duty-free trade policy across the continent. The only exception is Eswatini, which maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan, a move that Beijing opposes.

This sweeping tariff elimination aims to boost African exports and strengthen China’s economic influence in the region. However, experts warn that while the policy may enhance trade volumes, it does not address deeper structural challenges in African economies or the growing trade imbalance favoring China.

China’s Zero-Tariff Policy: A Strategic Move

China’s zero-tariff regime, which began with 33 least-developed African countries, now covers 53 nations and will remain in effect until April 2028. Beijing touts this as a historic first for a major economy, positioning itself as a trade liberalizer and a friend to Africa, especially in contrast to recent US tariff policies.

"China is positioning itself as the trade liberaliser and Africa-friendly economic partner, in contrast to Donald Trump and the US."—Lauren Johnston, AustChina Institute

Trade Imbalance and Economic Realities

Despite tariff removals, Africa’s trade deficit with China has surged, reaching approximately $102 billion last year. African exports to China remain heavily reliant on raw materials like crude oil and minerals, while Chinese exports to Africa far exceed imports. Experts caution that tariff cuts alone won’t fix Africa’s structural economic issues.

• Limited industrial capacity in many African countries
• Weak logistics and infrastructure
• Dependence on raw commodity exports
• Uneven benefits favoring more industrialized nations like South Africa and Morocco

Potential Benefits and Limitations for African Economies

The expanded tariff-free access could boost agricultural exports such as coffee, nuts, avocados, and tea, potentially improving rural incomes and reducing poverty. However, experts emphasize that long-term gains depend on African countries’ ability to diversify production and move up the value chain.

"Over the long term, the potential could be more meaningful, especially if African countries are able to expand production, diversify exports, and move up the value chain."—Alfred Schipke, East Asian Institute

The Political Exclusion of Eswatini

Eswatini remains excluded from China’s zero-tariff policy due to its diplomatic ties with Taiwan, which China views as a breakaway province. This exclusion is seen as a political message, highlighting Beijing’s use of economic leverage in international relations.

"China is weaponising its ties with African countries, and showing how relations with China come with strings attached."—Wen-Ti Sung, Australian National University Taiwan Centre

Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities

While China’s tariff removal offers immediate market access benefits, African nations face the ongoing challenge of transforming their economies beyond raw material exports. Experts urge governments to leverage this opportunity to implement industrial policies and infrastructure improvements that can foster sustainable growth and reduce trade imbalances.