China has unveiled a sweeping trade proposal that could grant South African wine zero-tariff access to the Chinese market, a move poised to significantly boost exports from the region. The announcement came during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) meeting held in Changsha on June 11.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian revealed that President Xi Jinping had sent a congratulatory letter to the forum, confirming that China plans to eliminate tariffs on 100% of taxable goods imported from all African countries maintaining diplomatic ties with Beijing. Of Africa’s 54 nations, only Eswatini remains outside formal relations with China, positioning South Africa to fully benefit from the policy once it is enacted.
This initiative would make South Africa the latest wine-producing country to secure duty-free entry into China, joining established exporters such as New Zealand, Chile, Australia, Georgia, and Serbia.
Current customs data from January to April 2025 indicate China imported US$1.86 million worth of South African wine, ranking South Africa 12th in value among wine exporters to China and accounting for 0.41% of total Chinese wine imports. By volume, South Africa stands 10th, with shipments totaling 533,510 liters, representing 0.71% of the market.
Despite holding a modest share, South African wines have gained traction, particularly in retail segments, due to their affordability. For instance, KWV’s Chenin Blanc, priced at RMB 48 (approximately US$6.60) per bottle at Sam’s Club, ranks among the top-selling white wines. Additionally, KWV products have expanded their presence on instant delivery platforms like Pupu Mall.
The removal of import tariffs is expected to improve the price competitiveness of South African wines and open new market opportunities amid China’s highly competitive wine sector.
Bilateral trade between China and Africa has surged in recent years, with China maintaining its position as Africa’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years. In the first five months of 2025, trade volume reached RMB 963 billion (approximately US$133 billion), marking a 12.4% increase year-on-year and setting a new record for the period. The proposed zero-tariff policy aims to further ease African goods’ access to the Chinese market.
However, the policy remains pending official implementation, with no specific timeline announced. Even with tariff elimination, South African wines will still incur China’s 10% consumption tax and 13% value-added tax, consistent with taxes levied on other duty-free wine imports.
The new trade framework signals a potential turning point for African exporters seeking deeper integration into the rapidly expanding Chinese consumer market.
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