African manufacturers, including those in Nigeria, are set to benefit from Chinese President Xi Jinping’s decision to eliminate tariffs on imports from 53 African countries starting May 1, 2026. The move, which expands an existing zero-tariff regime from 33 to 53 countries, opens one of the world’s largest consumer markets to African producers and could save up to $1.4 billion in annual duties based on current trade volumes.
The Pan-African Manufacturers Association (PAMA) hailed the announcement, highlighting opportunities for sectors such as agro-processing, textiles, light manufacturing, and industrial goods. PAMA noted that while raw material exports may see short-term growth, the real gains depend on Africa moving up the value chain to produce semi-processed and finished goods for the Chinese market.
“The zero-tariff window should act as a catalyst for industrial upgrading, stronger export competitiveness, and the development of regional value chains,” said Engr. Mansur Ahmed, PAMA’s Interim President. He emphasised that preparedness, quality standards, and scale will determine which sectors benefit most, including processed foods, cocoa derivatives, textiles, and light manufacturing.
The policy applies to all product categories from eligible African nations, further strengthening Sino-African trade ties. African exporters are encouraged to use the opportunity to upgrade production, adopt modern technologies, and enhance logistics, ensuring competitiveness in the massive Chinese market.
PAMA stressed that without deliberate value addition, Africa risks reinforcing its dependence on raw commodities, limiting long-term industrial growth. The tariff removal, however, provides a historic chance for African manufacturers to expand into a predictable and high-volume market, driving economic transformation across the continent.
