Act Swiftly or Miss Out on China’s Tariff Opportunity – Edward Boateng Cautions Africa

Former Ghanaian Ambassador to China, Edward Boateng, has issued a strong warning that Africa may miss out on the significant benefits of China’s new zero-tariff policy if it fails to respond decisively and quickly.

He emphasized the need for the continent to strategically prepare by investing in infrastructure, improving product standards, empowering local entrepreneurs, and strengthening supply chains and regulatory systems to take full advantage of the opportunity.

Boateng’s remarks, featured in a recent article, follow China’s decision to eliminate tariffs entirely on imports from African nations with diplomatic relations.

“If Africa doesn’t get its act together, others will step in and occupy the space meant for African producers,” he cautioned.

While there is widespread optimism about the potential impact of the policy, Boateng stressed the urgency of taking deliberate and coordinated action to ensure African businesses are ready to compete in the vast Chinese market.

“This is a momentous opportunity. Africa must respond with urgency, clear strategy, and determination to transform this policy shift into tangible economic progress. The media across the continent should spotlight this initiative and explore ways to maximize its benefits,” the article noted.

He also warned that without a unified continental approach, Africa could be relegated to serving merely as a passageway for resource extraction, rather than becoming a key player in global commerce.

Boateng called on African governments and private sector leaders to bridge the competitiveness gap and seize what he described as a historic chance for economic advancement.

He further highlighted that Chinese companies are already firmly established in African economies and are well-positioned to benefit from both the zero-tariff policy and the wider opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).