China to Eliminate Tariffs for Nigeria from May 1

President Xi Jinping of China announced that starting May 1, China will scrap tariffs for Nigeria and other African countries, as reported by state media. This decision excludes Eswatini, which maintains diplomatic relations with Taiwan, a territory China claims as its own.

China has already implemented a zero-tariff policy for imports from 33 African countries and extended this policy to 53 countries last year. As Africa's largest trade partner, China plays a significant role in major infrastructure projects across the region, particularly through its Belt and Road Initiative.

The announcement coincides with the annual African Union summit in Ethiopia, where leaders from across the continent are gathering. This zero-tariff deal is expected to provide new opportunities for African development, especially in light of the steep tariffs imposed globally by U.S.

President Donald Trump last year.