Fresh oranges from Egypt, among the first imports to benefit from China’s zero-tariff policy for all African countries with diplomatic ties, clear customs at the Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone in Shanghai on May 1, 2026. Photo: VCG

　　China’s decision to extend zero-tariff treatment to all African countries with diplomatic ties sends a strong signal of support for multilateralism and fair trade at a time of rising protectionism, while opening wider opportunities for Africa’s exports, industrial upgrading and poverty reduction, a former senior Ethiopian official told the Global Times.

　　Arkebe Oqubay, a former Senior Minister and Special Adviser to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, said in an exclusive interview with the Global Times that the policy is particularly meaningful as sweeping US tariffs and growing protectionist pressure globally are adding strains to Africa’s trade position, with many African economies continuing to face trade deficits with some developed markets.

　　“China’s zero-tariff position reinforces multilateralism and free trade,” Oqubay said, noting that the treatment will encourage more African exports to China, help improve the balance of trade and unleash the full growth potential of bilateral trade, while contributing to trade diversification.

　　Oqubay, now a British Academy Global Professor at SOAS University of London, noted that the resulting trade expansion will strengthen African countries’ capacity for growth and poverty reduction, as many of their exports are agricultural products that support farmers’ incomes.