Pretoria: The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, has welcomed the announcement by the Government of the People's Republic of China regarding a temporary zero-tariff preference scheme for 20 non-least developed African countries, including South Africa. This initiative is set to enhance trade relations and provide significant economic opportunities for African exporters.
According to South African Government News Agency, the measure follows an announcement by Chinese President Xi Jinping on 14 February 2026, stating that China would implement zero-tariff treatment for African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. Previously, least developed countries have already benefited from duty-free access to the Chinese market through commitments made at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
Under the new scheme, qualifying South African goods exported to China between 1 May 2026 and 30 April 2028 will enjoy zero customs duties, contingent upon exporters adhering to applicable tariff schedules and rules of origin. Exporters are advised that access to this preference scheme is dependent on meeting prescribed rules of origin requirements, including product-specific conditions, and submitting a valid Certificate of Origin for customs clearance in China.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) announced that it is collaborating with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) on customs procedures and necessary legislative amendments for implementation, including processes related to issuing certificates of origin. The department further highlighted that for products already in transit without a prior certificate of origin, importers would be required to pay a deposit, which may be refunded once the required documentation is submitted. In such instances, the certificate of origin must be marked 'issued retrospectively' and will remain valid for one year from the shipment date.
While the scheme covers a broad range of products, certain goods may still be subject to specific conditions, including tariff rate quotas. Exporters are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the detailed tariff schedules and rules of origin documentation to maximise the benefits of the preferences.
According to dtic, the preferential market access framework presents a strategic opportunity for South Africa to enhance export competitiveness, diversify into higher value-added products, and expand market access for agricultural, industrial, and beneficiated goods. The initiative supports broader national objectives, including industrial development, employment creation, and export-led economic growth.
The dtic, in cooperation with relevant government departments and stakeholders, has initiated processes to facilitate the implementation of the preference scheme. An Export Help Desk within the dtic will serve as a central point of contact for guidance, queries, and assistance related to compliance and market access processes. Exporters can reach the help desk at [email protected]. Additionally, the dtic announced that a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions document for exporters will be published on its website.
Minister Tau expressed that the zero-tariff treatment preference scheme reflects the strong relationship between China and the African continent and signifies a significant outcome of FOCAC 2024. He added that the scheme provides South African exporters with the opportunity to expand into one of the world's largest consumer markets, while complementing the dtic's diversification strategy aimed at strengthening the resilience of the South African economy.