Yasmin Bilal
South Africa has welcomed a new temporary zero-tariff preference scheme introduced by the Government of the People’s Republic of China, a move expected to strengthen trade ties and expand export opportunities for qualifying goods.
The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, said the initiative reflects the strong relationship between South Africa and China and builds on commitments made under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
The scheme, announced following President Xi Jinping’s February 2026 pledge, extends zero-tariff treatment to 20 least developed African countries, including South Africa. The least developed countries already benefit from duty-free access under earlier agreements.
Under the arrangement, eligible South African exports to China will enter the Chinese market without customs duties between 1 May 2026 and 30 April 2028, provided exporters comply with strict rules of origin and documentation requirements, including a valid Certificate of Origin.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) said it is working with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) to finalise customs processes and legislative adjustments needed for implementation.
Exporters have been cautioned that goods already in transit without certificates of origin may require a deposit upon entry into China. The deposit can be refunded once proper documentation is submitted. In such cases, certificates must be marked “issued retrospectively” and remain valid for one year from the shipment date.
While the scheme covers a wide range of products, certain goods may still face conditions such as tariff rate quotas. Authorities are urging exporters to carefully review tariff schedules and compliance rules to maximise benefits.
The DTIC said the preferential access presents a major opportunity to boost South Africa’s export competitiveness, diversify into higher-value goods, and expand markets for agricultural, industrial and beneficiated products. It also aligns with national goals of industrial development, job creation and export-led growth.
An Export Help Desk has been established to support businesses navigating the new requirements, with enquiries directed to exports@thedtic.gov.za. A detailed FAQ guide will also be published online.
Minister Tau said the scheme supports South Africa’s broader trade diversification strategy and strengthens access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets.