Foreign leaders praise China's zero-tariff policy for Africa

Starting May 1, China began implementing an expanded zero-tariff treatment on imports from 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations. In this case, China has become the world's first major economy to unilaterally grant tariff exemption to the African nations with diplomatic ties.

Foreign leaders and officials have welcomed the policy in interviews with China Media Group (CMG), saying the measure will enhance the competitiveness of African exports and make a significant contribution to Africa's development.

President of Seychelles Patrick Herminie said the policy would significantly improve the competitiveness of Seychellois goods.

He noted that the policy could also stimulate growth in key sectors like the blue economy by encouraging local businesses to expand into aquaculture and increase seafood production for the Chinese market.

President of Sierra Leone Julius Maada Bio said China's vast market offers Africa valuable opportunities for shared development. "China is a huge market, and what we look forward to is growing together with China as friends."

He stressed that development and friendship were not contradictory, adding that China's willingness to advance together with its partners while pursuing its own development would contribute to a more peaceful world.

Kishore Mahbubani, former Singaporean ambassador to the United Nations, said China's decision to grant zero tariffs to African countries is a major boost for the continent.

Given the current international environment that the United States has raised tariffs on many countries over the past year, including African countries, Mahbubani believes the zero-tariff policy is a huge contribution by China to Africa's development.