by Ntandoyenkosi Ncube
JOHANNESBURG, April 16 (Xinhua) -- South African entrepreneurs welcomed China's zero-tariff treatment for products from 53 African countries with diplomatic ties with China, describing it as a timely move to open new opportunities for young business leaders across the continent.
Local business owners and startup founders said the policy, set to take effect from May 1, reflects China's continued commitment to supporting Africa's economic development and modernization drive at a time when emerging entrepreneurs are seeking greater access to global markets.
"It is a good gesture, especially in the current global economic climate, that there are major economies willing to see Africa improve its economic operations and overall conditions," said Kholisani Netha, a Johannesburg-based youth entrepreneur. "China has been there for us. China is for Africa."
Young entrepreneurs believe the zero-tariff initiative could significantly enhance the export competitiveness of African products, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing sectors, where young innovators are increasingly active.
When this policy stimulates demand among major players in key sectors, the impact will cascade along the value chain, said Jerry Nxumalo, who operates an independent metallurgical testing laboratory offering mineralogical, analytical and chemical analysis services.
"As large enterprises ramp up production, that momentum flows directly to smaller businesses, creating real opportunities for us to grow alongside them," Nxumalo added.
Business startups also noted that the effectiveness of such international initiatives will depend on complementary domestic policy support across African countries, and expressed hope that local governments could introduce measures to empower local communities and ease constraints facing small and medium-sized enterprises.
Ntombizodwa Mampololo, who runs a logistics and warehousing firm in City Deep, an industrial hub in Johannesburg, highlighted the importance of logistics and trade infrastructure in supporting growth.
Sharing a similar view, Netha said: "Domestic support systems are critical if this framework is to translate into inclusive growth and truly empower young entrepreneurs." ■