File: A basket of apples.
JOHANNESBURG - South African exports are getting a boost, as the first shipment of locally grown apples enters China under a new zero-tariff policy.
A 24-ton consignment cleared customs this week, marking the start of duty-free access for African goods into the Chinese market. The move eliminates a previous 10 percent tariff, cutting costs and improving competitiveness for exporters.
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The policy applies to dozens of African countries and is aimed at deepening trade ties and unlocking new opportunities for value-added exports.
Officials say the agreement could help shift African economies away from raw material exports, while giving producers access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets.