JOHANNESBURG, May 1 (Xinhua) -- China's new zero-tariff policy will significantly enhance South Africa's export competitiveness and provide unprecedented market expansion, South African Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau said on Friday.
The policy grants zero-tariff treatment to 53 African countries maintaining diplomatic relations with Beijing. The initial phase of this initiative officially commenced on May 1, 2026, and is scheduled to run for two years.
In a statement, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) confirmed that from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2028, qualifying South African goods exported to China will be exempt from customs duties.
This benefit remains subject to compliance with the applicable tariff schedules and strict rules of origin.
Tau urged South African firms to strictly adhere to these rules of origin, including product-specific requirements and the submission of valid certificates of origin to ensure seamless customs clearance in China.
"This preferential market access framework offers a strategic opportunity for South Africa to diversify into higher-value-added products and expand access for agricultural, industrial, and beneficiated goods," the DTIC noted. "It directly supports national objectives such as industrial development, job creation, and export-led growth."
The DTIC is currently collaborating with the South African Revenue Service to finalize customs procedures and legislative adjustments required for the issuance of the new certificates of origin.
To support local businesses, the DTIC has established a dedicated help desk and provided comprehensive compliance guides on its official website.
Tau added that the scheme is a significant milestone for the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and reflects the deepening Sino-African relationship, offering exporters a gateway into one of the world's most dynamic consumer markets. ■