China reaffirms commitment to modernisation with Africa through high-quality cooperation
China's foreign ministry says high-quality cooperation with Africa will continue to help both sides modernise. A zero-tariff policy for 53 African nations took effect on 1 May. Trade between China and Africa exceeded $310 billion in the first nine months of this year, up 22 per cent year-on-year.
China's foreign ministry has said that its high-quality cooperation with African nations will continue to support both sides as they pursue modernisation together, regardless of changes in the international situation.
Foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun made the remarks in Beijing on 6 November, emphasising that China remains Africa's most trustworthy and reliable partner. He highlighted the zero-tariff policy that China implemented for 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations, effective from 1 May this year.
According to Guo, the policy has made it easier for African agricultural products and light manufactured goods to enter the Chinese market. Specialty items such as avocados, coffee beans and shea butter have found their way into Chinese households across the country.
In the first nine months of this year, trade between China and Africa exceeded $310 billion, a 22 per cent increase compared with the same period last year. Guo said the zero-tariff measures have effectively reduced the cost of trade between China and Africa, bringing tangible benefits to many small and medium-sized enterprises and farmers in Africa.
China's commitment to deepening economic ties with Africa comes as part of its broader strategy to strengthen South-South cooperation and promote shared development goals.