China’s Zero-Tax Policy for Africa: Global Survey Shows Widespread Support

Osama Mukhtar
In a move reflecting China’s commitment to promoting international fairness and equity, the zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries will come into effect tomorrow, May 1st. This policy has not only garnered official attention but has also received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the global public, according to a survey conducted by CGTN, a subsidiary of China Media Group.
The survey, which included internet users from around the world, revealed that 87.3% of respondents positively assess China’s concept of mutual benefit in trade, amidst the challenges facing the global trading system. The results showed that these measures not only contribute to alleviating the development difficulties facing Africa but also protect international fairness and equity.
Specifically, 87.4% believe that the tariff exemption will accelerate the entry of African products into the Chinese market, and 85.2% point to its positive impact on people’s livelihoods and job opportunities. 87.8% also acknowledge that the policy enhances the competitiveness of African products, 84.5% conclude that it increases added value and promotes improvements in the industrial structure, while 83.8% believe it supports cold chains and preservation.
On the political front, 86.2% affirmed that the exemption embodies China’s responsibility as a major power in cooperating with Africa, 78% value that it strengthens the solidarity of the Global South against economic unilateralism, and 78.3% commended China’s role in promoting the shared development of least developed countries.
This global support was practically reflected in Sudan’s move to seize the opportunity. For Sudan, which is rebuilding after the devastation of war, the exemption represents an exceptional opportunity: by exempting its agricultural and mineral exports from duties, it gains international liquidity and opens up competitive markets, creating jobs. The measure also allows for the duty-free import of construction machinery and equipment, reducing reconstruction costs.
Sudan’s ambassador to China, Omar Issa, has stressed the need to leverage this initiative to become a strategic development partner, not merely a commercial transaction.
With the policy now in effect, economic circles are anticipating that this broad support will translate into tangible results on the ground, particularly in countries like Sudan, which possesses promising resources and needs a genuine gateway to the world’s second-largest economy.

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