A group, Made in China Goods Traders’ Association of Nigeria, has lauded the Chinese government free tariff for African countries, describing it as a direct policy to empower the continent with economic growth; reducing crime, poverty and unemployment.
The Chinese government last month announced the commencement of the implementation of a zero tariff policy that covers 53 African countries, including Nigeria, granting free tax into the Chinese markets which would last through April 2028 while long-term negotiations are ongoing.
Speaking on the development, the patron/national president of the association, Samuel Adigun Oluwole, said the policy removed steep import taxes from three per cent to eight per cent on key Africa products giving them vital price advantage against strong European competitors.
He said at a press conference that by this policy, China is allowing processed food into tax free markets; incentivising Chinese and global companies to invest deeply in Africa, build local factories, transfer technology rather than just exporting raw materials and crude.
Oluwole also said this unilateral decision is a measure of soft power boost for China, positioning it as a free trade alternative to Europe and the United States.
He also commended the China Consulate in Lagos headed by Mrs Yan Yuqing for embarking on a free cataract eye surgery service sponsored in partnership with the Chinese community in Nigeria.
