Business representatives in Guinea-Bissau have welcomed China's extension of the zero-tariff regime to African countries with diplomatic relations, considering that the measure could facilitate local products' access to the Chinese market.

The statements came after an explanatory session promoted by the Chinese Embassy in Guinea-Bissau, which brought together more than 70 local and Chinese companies for discussions and business matchmaking initiatives.

Bacar Baldé, a representative of Baldenafa S.A., an agricultural company dedicated to sesame production, said that the zero-tariff regime represents a significant opportunity for Guinea-Bissau's agricultural products to enter the Chinese market.

China will extend this regime to all African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations as of 1 May 2026. Between 1 May 2026 and 30 April 2028, zero-tariff treatment, in the form of a preferential regime, will be granted to 20 African countries that have diplomatic relations with China and are not classified as least developed countries.

(Source: Xinhua Português, on 30 April)