China's zero-tariff policy for 53 African nations yields $106.6 million in tariff savings at Guangzhou Customs

(ECNS) -- China's zero-tariff policy for all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties has yielded over 730 million yuan (about $106.6 million) in import savings at Guangzhou Customs in the first three months since its implementation, according to customs data released on Wednesday.

From May 1 to July 31, enterprises in the Guangzhou Customs district imported eligible goods worth over 730 million yuan, with tariff reductions exceeding 80 million yuan. Imports from 20 African countries not classified as least developed accounted for 470 million yuan, with tariff savings surpassing 50 million yuan.

Zhang Yazhou, head of the Rules of Origin Management Section of Guangzhou Customs, said the electronic data from certificates issued under this system can be transmitted in real time to China's customs clearance system, allowing enterprises to import without submitting paper certificates.

Guangzhou Customs has streamlined clearance procedures and implemented 24-hour smart clearance to facilitate trade. In the first half of this year, Guangzhou Customs handled 76.39 billion yuan in imports and exports with African countries, up 25.3% year on year.

(By Tang Yuxian)