By Mavis Paintsil, Accra
Ghanaian economist Dr. Samuel Nii-Noi Ashong is calling for urgent action to address non-tariff barriers hindering African exports, as the continent prepares to benefit from China’s zero-tariff policy.
Speaking at a forum organized by the Ghana China Friendship Association, Dr. Ashong emphasized that Africa must tackle logistics, infrastructure, and regulatory challenges to maximize the opportunity.
China’s zero-tariff policy, effective May 1, 2026, grants duty-free access to 98% of taxable products from African countries.
However, Dr. Ashong noted that poor infrastructure, weak digital customs systems, and limited trade facilitation could undermine Africa’s ability to capitalize on the deal.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is working to address these challenges through trade facilitation, regulatory transparency, and capacity building initiatives.
“We need to simplify customs procedures, increase transparency, and build the capacity of traders and officials,” Dr. Ashong stressed.
Ghanaian exporters are optimistic about the potential benefits, particularly for cocoa, cashew nuts, and shea butter.
However, they acknowledge that meeting international standards and addressing logistics bottlenecks remain key hurdles.
The Ghana government has pledged to support exporters and work with AfCFTA to remove non-tariff barriers.
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