Ghana and China to Finalise Zero-Tariff Trade Agreement by End-October
President John Dramani Mahama has announced that Ghana and China are set to conclude a zero-tariff trade agreement by the end of October 2025, a deal expected to significantly enhance Ghana’s export competitiveness and industrial growth.
Speaking at the Presidential Investment Forum in Beijing, President Mahama lauded the Chinese government for what he described as “an act of solidarity,” noting that the agreement would create vast opportunities for Ghanaian exporters, agro-processors, and manufacturers seeking access to the Chinese market.
“Between 2020 and 2024, China’s exports to Ghana rose by nearly 46 percent, while Ghana’s exports to China increased by over 11 percent. China’s decision to grant zero-tariff access to Ghanaian and African products signals confidence in our partnership. It opens vast new markets for Ghanaian exporters, agro-processors, and manufacturers,” the President stated.
He disclosed that both countries had already reached an agreement in principle and were working to finalise the process within the next few weeks.
“I’m happy to inform you that we reached an agreement in principle, and we have targeted the end of October to be able to sign off on the zero-tariff principle. I wish to commend the Government of China for this act of solidarity,” President Mahama added.
The zero-tariff initiative forms part of China’s broader policy to extend duty-free treatment to all 53 African countries. According to Chinese officials, the measure is aimed at deepening diplomatic and economic ties while enabling African economies, including Ghana, to secure fairer and more balanced trade relations with global partners.