China opens zero-tariff market to Liberia and 52 African countries
Eligible products from the 53 African nations that maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing can now enter China without import duties.
China has announced a zero-tariff policy covering Liberia and 52 other African countries, allowing eligible products to enter the Chinese market without applicable import duties. Chinese Ambassador to Liberia Yin Chengwu disclosed the policy at a media briefing at the Chinese Embassy in Monrovia on Wednesday, November 11. He said China has extended zero-tariff treatment to 63 countries in total, including 53 African nations that maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing.
The embassy pointed to two major Chinese trade fairs, the China International Import Expo (CIIE) and the Canton Fair, as places where African businesses can meet Chinese buyers. It said the ninth CIIE drew more than 4,100 overseas enterprises from 162 countries, regions and international organisations, and that free exhibition space for least developed countries rose by 17 percent. A matchmaking event for Asian and African food and agricultural products was also held to connect exporters with buyers.
The embassy encouraged Liberian businesses to use the zero-tariff arrangement and take part in international trade exhibitions. China remains a major trading partner of Liberia, with cooperation covering infrastructure, trade, healthcare and development assistance. Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung recently led a Liberian delegation to China for the opening of the ninth CIIE.
Why it mattersLiberian exporters of eligible products can now send them to China without paying import duties.