Xi’s message to African heads of state creates opportunities for development and deeper cooperation. Announced June 2025 amid Trump tariffs, it covers middle-income like Kenya/South Africa/Nigeria/Egypt/Morocco (previously up to 25% duties); 33 least-developed already duty-free since Dec 2024.
Trade hit $348.05 billion 2025 (+17.7% YoY per China Customs): exports to Africa $225.03 billion (+25.8%, manufactured goods), imports $123.02 billion (+5.4%, raw materials). Deficit widened 64.5% to $102.01 billion record.
Exports concentrated Angola/DRC/South Africa (oil/ores/agri). Analysts note limited impact as many raw materials already low-duty; Afreximbank November 2025 report urges value chains (agro/light manufacturing/minerals), infrastructure/logistics, consumer alignment, trade finance/yuan loans.