…China commits to deeper economic ties with Africa
China has announced a new set of trade and development measures aimed at increasing economic cooperation with Africa. The key initiative is an expansion of zero-tariff treatment for goods from all 53 African countries that have diplomatic relations with Beijing.
The announcement was made during the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), held in Changsha, China. Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a statement outlining China’s commitment to strengthening ties and supporting the continent’s development goals.
Read also: SON warns against effects of fake products on market integrity
Zero-tariff access for Africa’s exports
President Xi said the zero-tariff policy would benefit all African Least Developed Countries (LDCs), helping them gain full export access to the Chinese market.
“This is not only about economic benefits,” he said. “It’s about promoting Africa’s strategic autonomy, strengthening South-South cooperation, and driving inclusive development.”
The policy forms part of the “Ten Partnership Actions” framework, which includes plans to collaborate on green industries, e-commerce, digital payments, artificial intelligence, finance, rule of law, and security.
Read also: Germany targets Nigeria as strategic partner in green hydrogen development
Nigeria recognised as key partner
Nigeria received special attention during the event. The country served as Guest of Honour at the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo. Its delegation, led by Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar and Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, Joseph Tegbe, met with top Chinese officials and investors.
According to China’s Chargé d’Affaires in Nigeria, Mr Zhang Yi, these meetings led to new agreements to strengthen trade and investment ties. Officials from Hunan Province and Chinese enterprises are expected to expand operations in Nigeria, aligning with the Nigerian government’s Renewed Hope agenda.
Read also: Ghana moves to attract startups with new innovation bill
Call for stronger South-South cooperation
President Xi also warned that global protectionism and unilateralism pose risks to developing economies. “Only when China and Africa join hands to pursue modernisation can we help reshape global fairness and prosperity,” he said.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi supported this view, urging African countries to work closely with China in the face of growing international challenges.
Read also: IMF cuts Nigeria’s 2025 growth forecast to 3.0% as oil revenues decline
Changsha declaration adopted
The event ended with the adoption of the Changsha Declaration, which calls for enhanced South-South cooperation and fairer global trade. Over 100 ministers, ambassadors, and African Union representatives endorsed the declaration.
