China-Africa Cooperation: President Xi Jinping Unveils Zero-Tariff Trade Plan
Chinese President Xi Jinping has recently announced a new set of trade measures aimed at strengthening China-Africa cooperation, particularly focusing on expanding zero-tariff treatment. The announcement was made during the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Changsha, Hunan Province, China on 11 June 2025.
President Xi emphasized China’s commitment to extending zero-tariff treatment to 100% of tariff lines for all 53 African nations with diplomatic relations with Beijing. This initiative is part of economic partnership agreements geared towards mutual development.
In his message, President Xi stated, “China will facilitate greater access to exports from Africa’s Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to China, building upon the zero-tariff treatment for 100% tariff lines.”
Furthermore, he expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with Africa in implementing the ‘Ten Partnership Actions’, enhancing cooperation in key sectors such as green industries, e-commerce, science and technology, and artificial intelligence. The partnership will also deepen in areas like security, finance, and the rule of law, aiming to promote high-quality development in China-Africa cooperation.
These measures address the pressing needs of African nations and showcase China’s commitment to fostering friendship and cooperation with Africa. President Xi described these initiatives as a strategy to accelerate the implementation of previous FOCAC Summit pledges, expecting significant advancements in Africa’s development and strategic autonomy.
Amidst a backdrop of increasing unilateralism and protectionism globally, President Xi highlighted the importance of unity between China and Africa in navigating challenges and promoting peace, development, and stability.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi echoed this sentiment, stressing the significance of China-Africa solidarity in enhancing the influence of the Global South and upholding fairness and justice in the international system.
Nigeria played a prominent role at the forum, with representatives including Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar and Joseph Tegbe, Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership. Nigeria also held the position of Guest of Honour at the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, receiving warm reception from Chinese officials.
The engagements between Nigerian and Chinese representatives were deemed fruitful, with agreements reached to expand bilateral cooperation and discussions held with various Chinese enterprises. The Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, Mr Zhang Yi, expressed optimism about increased Chinese investment in Nigeria and reaffirmed China’s commitment to the Ten Partnership Actions and other collaborative initiatives.
The China-Africa Changsha Declaration was issued at the forum, emphasizing the resolve of Global South nations to enhance solidarity, champion justice, and protect shared interests amidst global instability.
In conclusion, President Xi Jinping’s unveiling of the zero-tariff trade plan signifies a significant step towards deepening China-Africa cooperation and fostering mutual development. The commitment to shared prosperity and strategic autonomy sets the stage for a new chapter in the evolving partnership between China and Africa.
