China-Africa trade makes ‘moderate’ gains despite US tariffs, currency weakness

China-Africa trade makes ‘moderate’ gains despite US tariffs, currency weakness

by Jevans Nyabiage

Published: 5:00pm, 21 Apr 2025Updated: 5:28pm, 21 Apr 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, China-Africa trade experienced a modest increase of 2.7% year-on-year, totaling US$72.6 billion. Chinese exports to Africa rose by 11.3%, reaching US$45.92 billion, while imports from Africa declined by 9.4% to US$26.69 billion.​

This growth occurred despite escalating global trade tensions, notably the reintroduction of U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump’s administration. These tariffs, ranging from 10% to 50% on select African exports, have been temporarily paused for 90 days but pose a threat to African economies that benefit from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).​

Amid these challenges, a Chinese diplomat expressed optimism that Beijing’s duty-free initiative for products from 33 least-developed African countries will enhance China-Africa trade relations and help mitigate the adverse effects of the tariffs.​

For more detailed information, you can read the full article here: South China Morning Post.​