South Africa has taken a key step toward deepening trade ties with China after signing a framework economic partnership agreement aimed at expanding market access for its exports. The agreement was signed in Beijing by Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau and China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, marking progress toward a broader bilateral trade deal, Reuters reported.
The framework, known as the China–Africa Economic Partnership Agreement, sets the stage for an early harvest arrangement expected by March 2026, which could grant duty-free access for selected South African products. Officials said the agreement also outlines cooperation in areas such as investment, green energy and industrial development.
South Africa is pushing to diversify its export destinations as it navigates global trade tensions and seeks to reduce reliance on traditional markets. China is already South Africa’s largest trading partner, and expanded preferential access could benefit sectors including mining, agriculture and manufacturing, government officials said.
Daily Sun says the move could strengthen South Africa’s position in Chinese supply chains while encouraging greater Chinese investment into local industries. Further negotiations are expected to determine the scope of products covered and the timeline for implementing tariff concessions under the proposed deal.
