The two-year zero-tariff policy, which officially took effect on May 1, 2026, covers qualifying exports from all African nations (excluding Eswatini due to its cordial relationship with Taiwan) in order to support regional industrialization and balanced trade.
Shipments of key commodities, including chrome, magnetite, iron ore, and corn, have surged through South Africa’s deep-water Port of Ngqura in the Eastern Cape Province.
South African commodity exports boom under China’s duty-free policy
Port management reports substantial growth in freight volume moving toward Chinese industrial hubs.
Xola Mkontwana, business strategy manager at the Port of Ngqura, revealed that the logistics center experienced “exponential growth” in cargo destined for the Chinese market.
As reported by Xinhua, the strategist explained that “the zero-tariff has assisted the throughput for bulk across the port system because there’s chrome and magnetite, iron ore, and also corn”.
Addressing the drivers behind this surge in trade, Mkontwana pointed to rapid industrial and infrastructure growth in China alongside lucrative prices for African agricultural and mining businesses.
He observed, “It’s the market that is there and the price that is good for the miners and owners”.
China expands zero tariffs to Africa while the U.S. raises import duties and cuts foreign aid
While China broadens trade access for African commodities, relations between the United States and several African nations face deepening trade and diplomatic friction.
The Trump administration enacted a 12.5% tariff on affected imports from South Africa, Nigeria, and five other African economies on July 24 after completing a Section 301 investigation.
Washington issued a “stop-work” order across foreign aid initiatives to review whether overseas funding aligns with U.S. foreign policy priorities.
According to Business Insider Africa, a U.S. State Department official stated that the decision aims to “promote self-reliance and reduce dependence on American assistance,” asserting that South Africa’s middle-income status allows it to take on greater financial responsibility for national health programs.
Aparently, Beijing’s zero-tariff policy draws African economies closer by opening trade opportunities just as U.S. tariffs and aid withdrawals create new trade huddles across the continent.
Awogbemila Temitope
africa.businessinsider.com
