(ECNS) - China has introduced a range of measures to increase imports from Africa and will continue to open its markets to the continent, said Qian Keming, vice minister of commerce.
China has levied zero tariffs on 97 percent of imports from the 33 least developed countries in Africa that have diplomatic ties with China, said Qian at a press conference for the upcoming of the Beijing Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
China has offered other assistance to African countries such as free booths during the China International Import Expo, it was noted.
Qian said trade between China and Africa remains generally balanced. He noted that development in African countries is unbalanced so it’s natural to see a surplus or deficit in particular countries.
China has helped African countries accelerate industrialization, encouraged Chinese companies to invest in Africa, and increased their export capabilities. In addition, it offers personnel training to customs officers and trade facilitators to boost African export capacity.
