China Removes Tariffs on Many African Imports for Two Years to Boost Trade

Beijing has recently removed tariffs on many imports from Africa for the next two years. The tariff-free access applies to many African products and has renewed hopes of industrial growth on the continent. China is Africa’s largest trading partner.

Chinese exports to Africa far exceed African exports to China, and many African nations remain heavily reliant on exporting raw commodities while importing manufactured goods. Chinese money has helped finance roads, railways and ports across Africa for more than a decade.

U.S. Appears to be pulling back from the continent. China wants access to Africa’s resources, and the continent wants to build industries and jobs and move up the value chain. Trade between the two sides remains uneven despite the tariff removal.