China says it won’t seek reciprocity with South Africa on zero-tariff policy

South China Morning Post

by Jevans Nyabiage

February 19, 2026

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China says it won’t seek reciprocity with South Africa on zero-tariff policy

China has announced that it will not seek reciprocity in its latest trade agreement with South Africa under the expanded zero-tariff policy for African nations. The deal allows South African goods to enter the Chinese market tax-free without requiring Pretoria to lower its import duties on Chinese products. This decision was reaffirmed by Chinese Ambassador Wu Peng, who emphasized that China will fully accommodate South Africa's interests and not reciprocate. President Xi Jinping had earlier assured the African Union Summit that China would implement the zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries starting May 1. The agreement has eased concerns in South Africa, particularly regarding potential reciprocity demands that could have negatively impacted its car industry. Beijing’s move is part of a broader effort to strengthen economic ties with African nations amid shifting global trade dynamics. The policy comes as some African countries face higher tariffs in the United States and seek to diversify their markets. South Africa’s agriculture sector stands to benefit significantly from the deal, with Chinese imports of South African plums marking an important milestone. This reflects China’s growing appetite for African produce under the new agreement. Meanwhile, Beijing is leveraging its economic influence to deepen ties across the continent, offering tax-free access to a vast market as part of its long-term strategy to expand trade partnerships. This policy shift highlights China’s commitment to fostering closer economic relationships with African nations, particularly in light of challenges posed by other global powers like the U.S. The decision not to seek reciprocity underscores China’s willingness to prioritize mutual benefit and regional stability over unilateral demands. As South Africa and other African countries navigate complex international trade landscapes,

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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/19/2026