International
Hainan Free Trade Port Receives First Duty-Free African Import Under China’s Zero-Tariff Policy
By Iyojo Ameh
A shipment of 252 metric tonnes of palm kernel shell activated carbon from Nigeria has become the first African import to enter the Hainan Free Trade Port under China’s zero-tariff policy, marking a milestone in the country’s efforts to deepen trade and economic cooperation with Africa.
Haikou Customs announced the development on Wednesday, saying the consignment is the first to benefit from the preferential tariff arrangement introduced by China for eligible African countries.
According to Chinese authorities, the zero-tariff policy took effect on May 1, 2026, eliminating import duties on products from African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China as part of Beijing’s broader strategy to expand trade and investment with the continent.
The policy is expected to reduce trade costs, improve market access for African products and encourage greater exports to the Chinese market.
Chinese officials said the successful clearance of the Nigerian shipment demonstrates the practical impact of the policy and highlights the growing momentum in China-Africa economic and trade cooperation.
The imported product, activated carbon made from palm kernel shells, is widely used in water treatment, air purification and industrial filtration, reflecting the increasing value-added nature of agricultural exports from Africa.
The Hainan Free Trade Port, one of China’s flagship economic opening-up initiatives, is expected to play a key role in facilitating increased imports of African products under the zero-tariff arrangement.
China said the initiative forms part of its commitment to strengthening economic ties with African countries by creating more favourable trading conditions, lowering import costs and promoting mutually beneficial cooperation.
The arrival of the Nigerian shipment is expected to pave the way for more African products to enter the Chinese market under the preferential trade framework, further advancing China-Africa trade relations.
