China expands zero-tariff policy, offers 100% tariff relief to LDCs

China has expanded zero-tariff treatment to cover 100 per cent of imported products from least developed countries (LDCs) maintaining diplomatic ties with Beijing. This enhanced policy, which came into effect on December 1, 2024, raises the previous product coverage from 98 per cent to full tariff-line inclusion. China has informed the World Trade Organization (WTO) of its decision.

At a recent WTO meeting in Geneva, the Chinese delegation presented the policy as part of the country’s wider strategy to deepen trade relations with LDCs and African nations. As part of this approach, China also announced its intention to apply the 100 per cent zero-tariff treatment to all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, as reported by Chinese media outlets.