Ghana-China Forum Highlights Need to Reduce Non-Tariff Barriers for African Exports

Accra: The Ghana China Friendship Association (GhaChiFa) on Tuesday held a forum on China's zero-tariff policy, emphasizing the need to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in reducing non-tariff barriers to African exports. Dr. Samuel Nii-Noi Ashong, a finance expert, underscored the strategic importance of this policy shift announced by President Xi Jinping, which extends zero-tariff treatment to all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties, effective May 1, 2026. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Ashong highlighted that while the zero-tariff policy could act as a catalyst for trade, it does not automatically ensure export success. He stressed the importance of Africa's ability to leverage market access for structural transformation. He identified significant obstacles including inadequate logistics and infrastructure, weak digital customs systems, and limited trade facilitation, in addition to challenges in meeting technical standards and gaps in financial services, e-commerce, and capacity building. In his keynote address, Dr. Ashong suggested that China could assist by investing in African transport systems to reduce inefficiencies and enhance digital customs processes to expedite clearance. He also urged China to offer training in packaging, branding, and regulatory compliance to help African products meet international standards. Dr. Ashong further called for support of initiatives such as the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System to facilitate local currency transactions and broader capacity-building efforts. Focusing on Ghana, Dr. Ashong emphasized the need for the country to prioritize value addition rather than exporting raw materials to fully capitalize on the policy. Mr. Li Yao Hong, Economic Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in Ghana, affirmed that China's comprehensive zero-tariff policy signifies its commitment as a reliable partner and would deepen relations with Africa. He stated that industrialization is key for the continent's economic transformation and self-reli ance, and China intends to boost investment cooperation to support this agenda. Mr. Benjamin Anyagre, General Secretary of GhaChiFa, recounted the historical ties between Ghana and China, dating back to August 18, 1961, emphasizing the potential of the zero-tariff policy to create new opportunities for African exports to China. He noted that GhaChiFa would continue advocating for increased market access. The event saw participation from representatives of the Registrar General's Department, the Ghana Standards Authority, the Ghana Shippers Authority, and security agencies, among other stakeholders, who discussed strategies to maximize the benefits of China's zero-tariff policy and tackle barriers to African exports.