The Progress Toward Zero Tariffs in China

South Africa and China are entering a new phase in their economic relationship with the implementation of a zero-tariff trade arrangement, widely regarded as a significant shift in global trade dynamics. The agreement, formalised under the China-Africa Economic Partnership Agreement (CAEPA), is expected to come into effect on 1 May 2026, granting South African exports duty-free access to the Chinese market.

At its core, the zero-tariff deal removes import duties on South African goods entering China. China has extended similar tariff-free access to 53 African countries, reinforcing its position as a central trade partner across the continent.

SAPPA is in constant communication with Agbiz as well as the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China regarding the zero-tariff agreement, to ensure inputs on our industry is given and to obtain details on the exact implementation.

At the same time South Africa is busy negotiating an Early Harvest Agreement under the CAEPA, which means the path to full implementation is more complex than simply removing tariffs. The Early Harvest Agreement, which forms part of the broader framework, was proposed by China as a way to formally bring forward market access under the CAEPA.

In this context, while the zero-tariff announcements signals a major opportunity, the real progress lies in how effectively both countries navigate the technical details and sequencing of the agreement. The success of this first phase may ultimately shape the scope and depth of future trade CAEPA negotiations between South Africa and China.”