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China will implement zero-tariff policies for all 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations, starting Friday. This move reflects the country's firm commitment to expanding high-level openness, a Ministry of Commerce spokesperson said.

Since December 1, 2024, China has already provided zero tariffs on 100 percent of tariff lines to 33 least developed African countries that have diplomatic relations with China.

The new zero-tariff measure will apply to the remaining 20 African countries that are not classified as least developed. It will be implemented through preferential tariff rates over a period of two years.

With this measure, China has become the first major economy in the world to unilaterally grant comprehensive zero-tariff treatment to all African countries and to all least developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations.

"The tariff elimination measures taking effect on May 1 represent an innovative solution introduced during negotiations on the Economic Partnership Agreement for Joint Development between China and non-least-developed African countries.

This is a phased and groundbreaking solution aimed at overcoming practical difficulties that some African countries face in concluding negotiations with China within a short period. China will continue to advance negotiations on the Economic Partnership Agreement for Joint Development with African countries so that they can enjoy a long-term, stable and institutionalized zero-tariff regime," said Chen Yusong, Deputy Director of the WTO Department at the ministry.

The ministry will coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure effective implementation of the tariff elimination measures, the official added. China will continue negotiations and the signing of economic partnership agreements with African countries to achieve mutually beneficial arrangements and provide institutional guarantees for the development of bilateral economic and trade cooperation.

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