Accra, Ghana – As the global economy grapples with rising unilateralism, trade tensions, and uncertainty, China is strengthening its commitment to Africa through policies rooted in sincerity, friendship, and shared prosperity, according to Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Tong Defa.
In an op-ed titled “Sincerity, Friendship and Equality: Written in An Era of Global Economic Turbulence,” Ambassador Tong highlighted China’s unwavering support for Africa amid shifting global dynamics and economic turbulence. He noted that while some countries resort to tariffs and protectionism, China is opting for openness and partnership.
At the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), President Xi Jinping announced a landmark decision to grant 100% zero-tariff treatment to all tariff lines from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) that maintain diplomatic ties with China—33 of which are in Africa. This move positions China as the first G20 nation to offer full zero-tariff access to LDCs.
China’s trade with Africa reached 295.5 billion US dollars in 2024, marking a 6.1% increase from the previous year. Electric vehicle exports saw significant growth, underscoring China’s push for green energy collaboration across the continent. The trade volume is projected to exceed 300 billion US dollars in 2025.
Ambassador Tong emphasized that China’s institutional framework for economic engagement with Africa includes bilateral investment treaties with 34 African nations and tax agreements with 21 others. These, he said, are designed to enhance market access, protect investments, and support tax coordination.
In support of agricultural exports, China has opened “green channels” for African products and continues to facilitate African participation in major trade fairs such as the Canton Fair, the China International Import Expo, and the China International Supply Chain Expo. China is also promoting digital infrastructure for African specialty goods to access global markets.
The Ambassador condemned countries that use tariffs as a weapon for political gain, calling such actions detrimental to global economic stability and in violation of World Trade Organization rules. In contrast, he said, China is committed to mutual support, tearing down walls instead of building them.
Highlighting recent developments, he cited the establishment of the Association of China (Ghana) Mining LBG on April 3rd in the presence of Ghana’s Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, as a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation. He also mentioned China’s pivotal role in co-chairing the Official Creditor Committee for Ghana to help resolve the country’s debt challenges.
Looking ahead, the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo will be held from June 12 to 15 in Changsha, China. The event aims to foster new partnerships in clean energy, environmental protection, traditional medicine, e-commerce, and modern agriculture.
“China will continue to implement practical initiatives such as tariff exemptions, trade facilitation, and investment promotion,” Ambassador Tong affirmed. “We will always be Africa’s good friend, good partner, and good brother.”
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Fiifi Nettey
