Republic of Congo poria enters China as zero-tariff trade expands

Editor's note: This series explores how China's zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries set to take effect May 1, is reshaping trade opportunities across the continent. In this episode, poria farmers from the Republic of Congo are set to benefit as it gains access to the Chinese market as part of expanding agricultural trade under the new policy.

Poria from the Republic of Congo is entering the Chinese market as part of expanding agricultural trade between China and African countries.

The development comes under a new zero-tariff policy covering 53 African countries, aimed at reducing trade barriers for selected imports.

The fungus, which grows on tree roots, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for more than 2,000 years. Today, it is also widely used in food and health products, including biscuits, porridge and dietary supplements.

Industry players say the policy is expected to improve market access for African producers supplying raw materials for China's growing health sector.

Li Huanguo, CEO of Guoling Technology, said the model is built on cooperation with African partners. 

"We train partners in standardized cultivation so they can supply better-quality raw materials," he said. "We then process them into higher-value products for global markets."

A separate 2026 agreement to supply 3,000 tons of poria, highlights growing commercial flows into China's health products industry.