Story perspectives

China's Zero-Tariff Policy Boosts LDC Imports, Excludes South Africa

12/9/2025

27 2

Summary

Story summary

China implements a zero-tariff policy for all least developed countries (LDCs) with which it has diplomatic relations, effective December 2024.
The policy has boosted imports from these LDCs to over 55 billion yuan in the past year.
South Africa, a middle-income country, does not qualify for duty-free access, placing its exporters at a competitive disadvantage.
Experts say South Africa can seek tariff terms through diplomacy and economic cooperation with China.

1 of 1

Story summary

China implements a zero-tariff policy for all least developed countries (LDCs) with which it has diplomatic relations, effective December 2024.
The policy has boosted imports from these LDCs to over 55 billion yuan in the past year.
South Africa, a middle-income country, does not qualify for duty-free access, placing its exporters at a competitive disadvantage.
Experts say South Africa can seek tariff terms through diplomacy and economic cooperation with China.