Minister Parks Tau welcomes China’s temporary zero-tariff preference scheme for South African exports

The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, has welcomed the Government of the People’s Republic of China’s decision to introduce a temporary zero-tariff preference scheme for 20 non-least developed African countries, including South Africa.

The announcement follows a commitment made by Chinese President Xi Jinping on 14 February 2026, confirming that China would implement zero-tariff access for African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. Least developed African countries are already benefiting from duty-free access to the Chinese market under agreements reached during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

Under the new arrangement, qualifying South African exports entering China between 1 May 2026 and 30 April 2028 will enjoy zero customs duties, provided exporters comply with the required tariff schedules and rules of origin.

South African exporters have been urged to ensure compliance with all product-specific requirements and customs regulations. To qualify for the tariff benefits, exporters must submit a valid Certificate of Origin during customs clearance in China.

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, commonly known as the DTIC, is currently working with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to finalise customs procedures and implement the necessary legislative adjustments linked to the scheme, including the issuing of Certificates of Origin.

For goods already in transit, importers may be required to pay a deposit if a Certificate of Origin was not issued before or at the time of shipment. Once the required documentation is submitted, the deposit may be refunded. Certificates issued after shipment must be marked “ISSUED RETROSPECTIVELY” and will remain valid for one year from the shipment date.

Although the scheme covers a broad range of products, some exports may still face special conditions, including tariff-rate quotas. Exporters are encouraged to study the detailed tariff schedules and rules of origin carefully to maximise the benefits available under the agreement.

The government believes the preferential market access framework presents a strategic opportunity for South Africa to strengthen export competitiveness, diversify into higher-value products, and expand access for agricultural, industrial, and beneficiated goods in the Chinese market.

The initiative is also expected to support South Africa’s broader economic goals, including industrial development, job creation, export-led growth, and long-term economic resilience.

The DTIC, together with relevant government departments and industry stakeholders, has already started implementing measures to ensure the smooth rollout of the scheme.

To support exporters, the DTIC’s Export Help Desk will act as a central contact point for guidance, compliance assistance, and market access support. Exporters can access assistance through the official email address: exports@thedtic.gov.za.

In addition, the DTIC will publish a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document on its website to help exporters better understand the requirements and opportunities linked to the zero-tariff arrangement.

According to Minister Tau, the zero-tariff preference scheme reflects the strong relationship between China and the African continent, while also representing a major outcome of FOCAC 2024. He said the agreement offers South African exporters a valuable opportunity to expand into one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing consumer markets.

Tau added that the development aligns with the DTIC’s broader export diversification strategy, aimed at strengthening the resilience and sustainability of the South African economy.