Trade between China and Africa increased by 22% year-on-year to approximately Ksh40.6 trillion in the first nine months of 2026, driven partly by growing demand for African agricultural products following the introduction of China’s zero-tariff policy for eligible African goods.
The policy, which took effect on May 1, 2026, is opening additional opportunities for African farmers, exporters and agribusinesses seeking access to China’s large consumer market.
According to trade figures shared on X on November 5, imports of African peanuts into China increased 4.4 times, while frozen strawberry imports rose by 113% and avocado imports grew by 82%.
The update described the expanding trade relationship as mutually beneficial, highlighting the potential gains for producers and consumers on both sides.
Zero-tariff policy creates opportunities for African agriculture
The reported growth signals increasing opportunities for African agricultural exporters to expand their presence in China by taking advantage of reduced trade barriers.
Africa currently accounts for approximately 70% of China’s sesame imports and 40% of its coffee imports, underlining the continent’s importance as a supplier of agricultural commodities.
Removing import duties on eligible African products is intended to improve their price competitiveness and encourage greater market access.
However, the reported figures represent trade between China and Africa as a whole and do not necessarily reflect the performance of individual countries.
For African producers to benefit sustainably, greater attention will also be needed on production capacity, product quality, processing, logistics and compliance with destination-market requirements.
Kenya’s avocado exports face seasonal restrictions
Despite rising Chinese demand for African avocados, Kenya’s avocado industry is facing temporary restrictions on sea shipments because of inadequate production volumes.
On October 28, 2026, Kenya’s Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) announced the suspension of sea exports of Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton and Jumbo avocado varieties from October 30.
The decision followed an assessment by the Horticultural Crops Directorate, which found that available production was insufficient to support sea shipments.
“The survey findings are that current production volumes are low and insufficient for sea shipment,” the authority said in a notice signed by Calistus Efukho on behalf of the Director General.
Air shipments of the affected varieties are allowed to continue, subject to inspection and traceability requirements.
Exporters face tighter compliance requirements
The AFA also suspended avocado harvesting for oil processing during the restriction period and introduced verification requirements for existing avocado oil stocks intended for export.
Processors must have their stocks verified before receiving export clearance. Imports of avocado fruit for oil processing have also been suspended during the closure.
The measures are intended to prevent immature locally grown avocados from being harvested and presented as imported fruit.
Exporters who breach the restrictions risk losing their licences, while export permits will not be issued for consignments that fail to comply with the guidelines.
Balancing growing demand with reliable supply
The expansion of China-Africa trade offers significant opportunities for African agricultural producers, particularly in commodities such as avocados, peanuts, sesame and coffee.
However, Kenya’s temporary avocado export restrictions demonstrate that market access alone is not enough. Consistent supply, proper harvesting practices, quality standards and effective traceability remain essential for exporters seeking to serve international markets.
As demand for African produce grows in China, investment in agricultural productivity, value addition and export infrastructure will be important in helping producers turn new trade opportunities into sustainable earnings.