Seychelles President Patrick Herminie said China's decision to extend zero-tariff treatment to 53 African countries marks a turning point for competitiveness and industry growth, giving African producers wider access to the world's second-largest market.
China will fully implement zero-tariff treatment to 53 African countries having diplomatic relations with China starting from May 1, 2026. At the same time, China will continue to push forward the negotiation and signing of the agreements on economic partnership for shared development, and further expand access for African exports to China by upgrading the "green channel" and other measures.
Herminie said the tariff-free access would be a catalyst for Seychelles' growth, spurring new industries and encouraging local producers to branch into aquaculture and agriculture.
"Definitely, I mean the competitiveness of our goods would be greatly, tremendously improved. And at the same time, it can spur certain development, especially when it comes to blue economy. That may encourage local businesses to go into business aquaculture. The production of a lot of seafood that are consumed in China, even in agriculture. Why not? And also it can only encourage people to produce more to export to China when we have the zero tariff access," Herminie said in an exclusive interview with China Media Group (CMG).
He praised China's opening-up policy for providing tangible gains for Africa and the wider Global South.
"Unilateralism is always a problem and China being an economic giant is good news, so that we can benefit. When I say 'we', not only Seychelles, but the Global South, Africa, with more competitive goods. But at the same time we are not at the mercy of some of our former colonial masters. So that's good news for us," said the president.
Seychelles president hails China's zero-tariff policy as boost for African economy
