China Enhances Green Channel for African Agricultural Exports

On Monday, during a presentation at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, Shuai Guipeng, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, announced the upgrade of the green channel for African agricultural exports. This initiative aims to improve market access and address challenges associated with long-distance transport between China and Africa, particularly for fresh agricultural products.

Guipeng explained that the upgraded mechanism will enhance customs clearance processes, making them faster and more efficient. He responded to concerns raised by African journalists regarding delays in the clearance of fresh produce, such as stone fruits from South Africa, which have been affected by bottlenecks.

The new approach includes a broader package for market access, with discussions on efficient clearance procedures. Additionally, China is committed to a zero-tariff policy for African agricultural food products and plans to support infrastructure development to expand the industry, including revitalizing the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) beyond railway rehabilitation.