China drops tariffs on African imports

China has eliminated tariffs on imports from 53 African countries, a move that could give South African wine a better chance in the Chinese market, even as industry officials warn that lower duties alone will not solve deeper problems facing exporters.

The change took effect on May 1 under the China-Africa Economic Partnership Agreement, a two-year arrangement that covers a wide range of goods, including seafood, minerals and wine. For South African producers, the policy shift matters because bottles entering China had previously faced tariffs of 14% to 20%. On the first day of the new policy, Shenzhen Bay port in southern China cleared 6,000 bottles of South African wine without those charges.

South Africa Wine, the industry group that represents producers, said the tariff removal was an important step for a sector that has struggled to gain traction in China. Christo Conradie, who handles stakeholder management and market access for the group, called the move a significant advance for South African wine. Siobhan Thompson, chief executive of Wines of South Africa, said it created a crucial opportunity for producers to compete on more equal terms and to show the quality, diversity and value of their wines.

The agreement is set to run until May 1, 2028, giving South African exporters a limited window to strengthen commercial ties with Chinese buyers and build a longer-term presence in the market. The timing is important because China remains a difficult market for foreign wine sellers. South African wine accounts for only about 1% of export volume to China, and 16 countries ship more wine there.

The broader Chinese wine market has also been shrinking. Industry data cited by trade groups show that 2025 volumes were down nearly 70% from 2019, reflecting changes in how consumers buy and drink wine. That decline has made competition more intense for all exporters trying to hold or expand shelf space.

For South African wineries, the tariff cut may improve price competitiveness and help revive interest among importers and distributors. But analysts and industry officials say the policy does not guarantee growth. Success will depend on whether producers can maintain supply, invest in marketing and build relationships with Chinese partners in a market where demand has weakened and rivals are already well established.

The tariff removal follows years of lobbying by South African wine interests seeking relief from trade barriers that made their products less competitive than those from other countries. Even with those barriers reduced, exporters still face the challenge of convincing Chinese consumers and buyers that South African wine can offer consistent quality at a price that stands out in a crowded market.