China opens tariff-free market to South Sudanese products

China’s expanded zero-tariff policy for African countries could create new opportunities for South Sudanese products to enter the Chinese market, the Chinese ambassador to South Sudan has said.

Ambassador Ma Qiang made the remarks on Monday at a reception in Juba marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

“More and more South Sudanese products are expected to enter China’s vast market,” Ambassador Ma Qiang said, referring to the policy, which took effect on 1 May.

China says the policy provides zero-tariff treatment covering 100% of tariff lines for all African countries with which it has diplomatic relations. South Sudan was already among 33 African least-developed countries covered by China’s zero-tariff arrangements before the latest expansion.

The latest measures extended the treatment to 20 additional African countries that are not classified as least-developed, for an initial two-year period. Goods must still meet relevant rules of origin and other import requirements.

The Chinese envoy said the policy is part of China’s efforts to promote what it described as high-quality Belt and Road cooperation with African countries.

Ambassador Ma Qiang said China and South Sudan had treated each other as equals and supported one another since establishing diplomatic relations.

He also highlighted Chinese-supported projects in South Sudan, including the country’s air traffic management system, a drilling and water-supply project involving 47 water wells, and the renovation and expansion of Juba Teaching Hospital.

China has also provided training and scholarships for South Sudanese, while Chinese medical teams have conducted mobile clinics in several states, he said.

South Sudan has been seeking to expand economic and commercial ties with China. Senior Presidential Adviser Kuol Manyang Juuk called for greater cooperation in trade and investment, agriculture and agro-processing, infrastructure, energy, education, technology and health.

Juuk said greater economic cooperation could support value addition, create jobs and promote industrial development and economic growth in South Sudan.

He said South Sudan’s natural resources and young population provide potential for increased economic and commercial cooperation with China.

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