China is preparing to introduce zero-tariff treatment for imports from several African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, including Morocco, starting May 1, in a move that could enhance access for Moroccan products to the Chinese market.
The decision is part of a broader initiative announced by Beijing during the 39th African Union Summit, under which African partners will benefit from duty-free access as part of efforts to strengthen trade ties and deepen economic cooperation between China and the African continent.
The measure comes amid ongoing discussions between Rabat and Beijing aimed at reducing the significant trade imbalance between the two countries, which has remained heavily in China’s favour in recent years. The issue was addressed during the recent visit of Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, to China, where he took part in the seventh meeting of the Morocco–China Joint Commission on Economic, Trade and Technical Cooperation held in Beijing on December 16.
Official data presented by Mezzour show that bilateral trade reached around $9.4 billion in 2024, while Moroccan exports amounted to just $401 million, resulting in a trade deficit of nearly $9 billion for Morocco.
The minister stressed that the discussions focused on restructuring trade flows rather than reducing their overall volume, with the goal of building a more balanced and sustainable partnership. The new customs duty exemption could contribute to this objective by improving the competitiveness of Moroccan goods in the Chinese market.
Economists note that the real impact of the tariff removal will depend on Morocco’s ability to expand its export base, particularly in higher value-added products.
In previous statements, Mezzour said Morocco aims to diversify and increase its exports to China within a “win-win” framework, emphasizing value-added industries and stronger integration into global supply chains.
China is currently Morocco’s third-largest trading partner, its second-largest supplier, and its leading partner in Asia. The tariff-free regime is expected to reduce the final cost of Moroccan products entering the Chinese market, potentially supporting gradual export growth.
Over recent years, Morocco–China relations have deepened significantly, particularly after the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016 and the signing of the Belt and Road Initiative agreement in 2017. Cooperation has expanded through major industrial projects, including Mohammed VI Tangier Tech City and electric vehicle battery manufacturing initiatives.
Rabat is also seeking to attract further Chinese investment and expand cooperation in renewable energy, green industry, and digital transformation, while inviting Chinese participation in infrastructure projects linked to preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted with Spain and Portugal, as part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral economic ties.
