Infographic: Highlights of China-Africa trade in the first half of this year

As the world grapples with the spillover of regional hotspot issues and a resurgence of unilateralism and protectionism, China remains firmly committed to expanding high-standard opening up through its zero-tariff policy, demonstrating its sense of responsibility as a major country, said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Li Jian at a regular press conference on July 27, 2026.

Li said that China-Africa trade in the first half of this year can be defined by several highlights: First, total trade volume has grown at a faster pace. Second, trade structure has been improved. Third, the potential of Africa’s export to China keeps unlocking.

Li noted that international trade is a two-way street and“trade imbalance” narratives are nothing but traps set by those with ulterior motives in an attempt to disrupt friendly cooperation between China and Africa.

"Going forward, we will further enhance trade facilitation between China and Africa and take concrete steps to open the Chinese market to more quality African products, injecting fresh impetus into building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era," Lin noted.