BEIJING, July 23 — China has expanded its zero tariff policy to cover 63 countries, marking another step in its broader strategy to deepen trade ties and promote higher-level economic openness, according to the country's top customs authority.
Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, Sun Meijun, head of the General Administration of Customs of China, said the customs administration will continue pursuing a more diversified global trade network during the 2026 to 2030 period.
The announcement follows Beijing's decision in May to extend zero tariff treatment to imports from all 53 African countries with which China maintains diplomatic relations. The measure is part of a broader effort to strengthen commercial partnerships with developing economies while lowering barriers to trade.
To support the expanded policy, Chinese customs authorities have introduced a range of facilitation measures. These include risk based customs management, integrated market access procedures, and expanded green channels for agricultural and food products. Officials say these initiatives are designed to reduce clearance times and improve efficiency for cross border trade.
The impact has already become visible in trade data. During the first half of 2026, trade between China and Africa increased 19.6 percent compared with the same period a year earlier, reflecting stronger commercial activity under the new framework.
Looking ahead, the General Administration of Customs said it will continue implementing high standard opening up measures and trade agreements. The agency also plans to improve coordination in customs procedures, quarantine standards, and rules of origin to facilitate smoother international trade flows.
China's latest tariff expansion underscores its ongoing effort to position itself as a key driver of global trade, particularly among emerging markets, while reinforcing long term economic cooperation through lower import costs and streamlined customs processes.
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