China expands zero-tariff policy, offers 100% tariff relief to LDCs

Published: 2025-06-20

Insights

China has expanded its zero-tariff policy to cover 100 per cent of imports from least developed countries (LDCs) with diplomatic ties, effective from December 1, 2024.
At a WTO meeting, China also pledged full tariff exemption for 53 African nations and offered support through trade facilitation and training.
The move was welcomed by WTO members.

China has expanded zero-tariff treatment to cover 100 per cent of imported products from least developed countries (LDCs) maintaining diplomatic ties with Beijing. This enhanced policy, which came into effect on December 1, 2024, raises the previous product coverage from 98 per cent to full tariff-line inclusion. China has informed the World Trade Organization (WTO) of its decision.

At a recent WTO meeting in Geneva, the Chinese delegation presented the policy as part of the country’s wider strategy to deepen trade relations with LDCs and African nations. As part of this approach, China also announced its intention to apply the 100 per cent zero-tariff treatment to all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, as reported by Chinese media outlets.

In addition to tariff relief, China pledged increased support for African LDCs through enhanced trade facilitation, technical training, and skills development programmes. These initiatives are aimed at boosting economic growth, fostering development opportunities, and strengthening the participation of African economies in global trade.

Highlighting the importance of maintaining a stable international trade environment amid current global uncertainties, China urged all WTO members to defend open and inclusive trade systems. It also called for collective action to support LDCs through preferential access and capacity-building assistance.

This initiative was supported by the WTO member states, added the media reports.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG)