China's planned removal of tariffs on African products has opened an unprecedented opportunity for Moroccan potters, who are already adapting their ancestral craftsmanship to win over the Chinese market.
China will implement zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations, starting May 1, 2026.
In a local pottery market in Rabat, Morocco's capital, artisans are busy fulfilling orders for decorated plates, colorful tagines, and handcrafted vases, hoping that the tariff elimination will further ease their access to China's vast consumer market.
"Pottery has a rich history, and we are committed to preserving this traditional craft. What keeps us going is the support of customers from Morocco and abroad. With the recent opening of the Chinese market and the possibility of exporting our products tariff-free, our creations can now reach that immense market, something that truly delights us," said Youssef El Rahamli, a Moroccan artisan and exporter.
For him, opening up to China represents a significant milestone. Foreign demand has allowed him to increase production and hire more workers. In his workshop, several young people are now working to shape and decorate pieces destined for export.
According to Rahamli, the zero-tariff policy could reduce costs and make Moroccan pottery more competitive, offering new income opportunities for local artisans.
Economists say they believe that easier access to the Chinese market could create new opportunities for Morocco's traditional industries.
"So I believe this measure presents real opportunities for Moroccan companies, because it will enhance the competitiveness of exporters. There will surely be an increase in export volumes, particularly for agricultural products, phosphates and their derivatives, industrial goods, and artisanal products. But all of this depends on Moroccan exporters' ability to improve their offerings and services, diversify exports, and move toward high-value-added exports. And, of course, it is also important to adopt a digital-focused trade strategy and strengthen their presence at trade fairs in China to reach Chinese consumers," said Khalid Achibane, a Moroccan economic expert.
China's tariff removal opens door for Moroccan potters
Green and smart home supplies are in the spotlight at the second phase of the 139th China Import and Export Fair, or Canton Fair, which opened on Thursday in Guangzhou, the provincial capital of Guangdong in south China.
For the first time, this phase of the Canton Fair has set up a fashion accessories zone, displaying everything from dazzling jewelry crafted with modern techniques to intangible cultural heritage skills passed down through generations.
One company is displaying its copper products which blend traditional culture with the Chinese trendy elements.
"All our products are made of pure copper, using techniques of ancient bronze wares. For overseas markets, our primary goal is to promote China's traditional culture to the world," said the exhibitor.
The bamboo and wooden home goods zone is another new section, where many companies are presenting new competitive advantages of green technologies and eco-friendly materials.
At the event, exhibitors have brought a range of novel products, like AI-powered swimming pools and chemical dosing systems, as well as smart grilling devices, drawing many buyers.
"This underwater treadmill features AI-powered water quality monitoring, capable of tracking water quality and equipment usage for buyers worldwide," said an exhibitor.
"Most of our visitors are from Europe, plus some inquiries from guests of the Middle East, also guests from Poland and Africa. It feels like a promising start," said another exhibitor.
The second phase, centered on quality home living, spans an area of 515,000 square meters with 25,000 booths.
It highlights three major sections, household goods and accessories, home decor, and building materials and furniture, along with four newly established special zones for fashion accessories, bamboo and wooden tableware, and other categories.
During the second phase, about 200 leading procurement companies including Tesco from Britain and Carrefour from France, have organized buyer delegations to attend, and over 70 overseas chambers of commerce have organized group visits.
Established in 1957, the Canton Fair is held twice a year in Guangzhou. It is the longest-running comprehensive international trade event in China and has been hailed as a barometer of China's foreign trade.
Canton Fair spotlights smart, green home supplies
