China to import some South African products duty-free

China will allow some products from South Africa to enter its market without import duties, a move being finalized as South Africa works to expand its export markets and attract more foreign investment, the South African trade ministry said on Thursday.

The duty-free arrangement is part of an agreement that South Africa’s Trade Minister, Parks Tau, is set to sign during his visit to China, where he is leading a delegation to deepen economic ties, secure market access and engage Chinese companies interested in investing in South Africa.

China is currently South Africa’s largest trading partner, followed by the United States. The ministry highlighted that the duty-free deal will help South African exporters diversify their markets and boost export growth, especially at a time when high tariffs imposed by other partners have weighed on trade prospects.

While details of the specific products covered under the duty-free agreement were not immediately disclosed, South Africa historically exports minerals and agricultural goods such as citrus, rooibos tea and other produce to China, and officials hope the expanded access will widen opportunities for these and other sectors.

The enhanced trade engagement comes as South Africa pursues broader economic objectives, seeking to reduce reliance on any single market and to build stronger commercial partnerships that can attract investment, stimulate job creation and strengthen the country’s export performance.