China’s Zero-Tariff Policy Boosts Trade Opportunities for South Africa and Kenya
Johannesburg/Nairobi – Officials and business leaders in South Africa and Kenya are celebrating China’s recent decision to implement a zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries, anticipating expanded trade opportunities, reduced costs for small businesses, and strengthened bilateral cooperation.
In a congratulatory letter to the FOCAC (Forum on China-Africa Cooperation) coordinators’ meeting in June 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the nation’s readiness to negotiate and sign a China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development. This initiative extends zero-tariff treatment to all tariff lines for 53 African countries with diplomatic ties to Beijing.
Effective May 1st of this year, the zero-tariff policy is now in effect. South African officials are optimistic about the potential for increased trade and collaboration.
“This is a great opportunity,” stated Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition of South Africa. “Starting from the first of May, we will take advantage of it. Going forward, products we send to China duty-free will be increasing.”
Amukelani Kubayi, acting director for Trade and Investment Promotion for the City of Johannesburg, echoed this sentiment. “We want to thank President Xi Jinping for this great initiative. It’s a huge milestone for us, especially for our traders in Johannesburg. This announcement will undoubtedly open up more opportunities for trade with China.”
SMEs and Agricultural Exports Expected to Benefit
Kubayi highlighted that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are expected to be the initial beneficiaries of the policy. South African agricultural products, including citrus fruits, wine, and aloe-based products, are projected to see a significant expansion in their export scale to China.
South African businessmen have also expressed enthusiasm. Manelisa Bane, a South African businessman, stated, “It’s going to be so important that things are zero-rated for us. It means notable savings for us as an SME. We, as a South African company, welcome what President Xi Jinping has done for South Africa. We are creating cooperation between the two countries and will be able to do more from an innovation and technology perspective within South Africa.”
Kenya Embraces the Opportunity
In Kenya, the Chinese Embassy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, hosted a seminar titled “Zero Tariffs, Infinite Opportunities.” A Kenyan official emphasized the country’s eagerness to implement the policy, stating that Kenya will strive to continuously improve product quality and the business environment to maximize the benefits for its citizens.
“Kenya-China partnership is permanent, versatile and resilient in an increasingly turbulent global, political and economic environment,” affirmed Josphat Maikara, director general for Political and Diplomatic Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.
Conflict in Lebanon Forces Farmers Off the Land, But Hope Remains
Southern Lebanon – The ongoing conflict between Israel and Lebanon has created a humanitarian crisis, displacing residents and severely impacting the agricultural sector. An estimated 80% of farmers in the south have ceased working due to damaged fields, unsafe roads, and concerns about contamination.
Despite a three-week extension of a ceasefire agreement, deadly Israeli strikes continue to target southern Lebanon, resulting in casualties and widespread destruction. Adding to the complexity, Israel is reportedly attempting to establish a “security buffer zone” along the border, warning residents against returning to the area.
Amidst these challenges, some farmers in the city of Tyre are demonstrating resilience. A group of women have begun planting on borrowed land, cultivating herbs like basil, sage, rosemary, mint, and thyme.
Zainab, a displaced farmer from the border town of Naqoura, explained, “I was displaced from my own land. I’m a farmer. I used to farm my land in Naqoura, so I started farming here, too. As you know, most of us from the south are farmers. Agriculture is the main thing we do.”
Devastating Impact on Agriculture
Roughly 80% of local farmers across southern Lebanon have been forced to halt operations. Over 17,000 farmers have been affected, with their fields damaged by shelling, fires, bulldozing, and contamination.
“Under the recent acts of aggression, it was difficult for farmers to reach their lands. They would even be targeted. I know some farm owners who hired workers to harvest the crops – unfortunately, some of them were killed,” said Alwan Charafeddine, the Deputy Mayor of Tyre City.
Agriculture is a vital component of the Lebanese economy and a cornerstone of life in the south. The region produces essential crops like olives, citrus, tobacco, and vegetables. When farmers are displaced, the repercussions are felt throughout the country.
Seeds of Hope in Tyre
Despite the hardships, the “Seeds of Tyre” project offers a glimmer of hope. Utilizing donated seeds, displaced women are cultivating aromatic herbs and producing basil and rose water, creating a small but vital economy.
“After the targeting of the bridge that connected Tyre with Sidon, it became hard to get many of the supplies we used to get through there, which has caused the prices of agricultural products to rise,” added the deputy mayor.
For Zainab, working on this temporary field provides stability and a means to preserve her farming skills while awaiting safe access to her own land.
