China’s zero-tariff policy is pulling African exports outward just as AfCFTA tries to strengthen trade within the continent.
AfCFTA aims to raise intra-African trade, which still accounts for only about 15% of Africa’s total trade far below Asia and Europe. But for many exporters, China is becoming the easier market. A Kenyan coffee processor may prefer selling to China through zero tariffs, established shipping routes, and dollar settlement rather than dealing with regional logistics and currency friction within Africa.
Still, the infrastructure built for China trade such as ports, cold chains, and food safety systems could also support regional commerce. A supply chain that exports to Shanghai can also serve Lagos or Nairobi.