Ethiopian coffee exporters optimistic about China zero-tariffs

Editor's note: This series explores the impact of China's zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries, effective May 1. In this episode, Ethiopian coffee producers and exporters welcome the policy as a significant opportunity to strengthen their presence in China, raise incomes for farmers, and foster more balanced trade between the two countries.

In the highlands of Ethiopia, where coffee has been cultivated for centuries, exporters are preparing for a major boost as China implements its zero-tariff policy on imports from 53 African countries starting May 1.

The move is expected to strengthen Ethiopian coffee’s position in China, one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.

Ethiopia’s exports to China have grown significantly in recent years, with coffee playing a central role in this expansion. The zero-tariff policy removes a key barrier, making Ethiopian coffee more competitive against major suppliers.

“China is one of the fastest-growing coffee markets, especially for Ethiopia. Five or six years ago, it was a very small quantity—no more than 2,000 to 3,000 tons. But now it is above 50 thousand tons per year exported to China,” said Seid Omer, CEO of Tracon Coffee.

Tracon Coffee alone exported more than 10,000 tons to China in 2025.

Omer is optimistic that the policy will accelerate this growth, delivering benefits across the value chain.

“For example, one of the world’s biggest competitors in the coffee market is Brazil. When Brazilian coffee enters China, it attracts an 8% import duty plus VAT. Ethiopian coffee, on the other hand, enters duty-free, making it cheaper and more competitive in the Chinese market.”

Experts note that while exports have risen, the overall trade balance is in China’s favor. The zero-tariff policy is seen as an important step toward narrowing this gap.

“One way to overcome this trade deficit from the perspective of the African economy is to export African goods to the Chinese economy free of tax and tariffs. So, the zero-tariff policy announced by the Chinese government will improve the trade balance. China is offering a real option and a real alternative for African economies in terms of exporting their goods, and this further strengthens the already existing bilateral partnership between China and Africa,” said Dejene Mamo, researcher in finance and political economy.

China has long been a major trade and investment partner for Africa. In Ethiopia, nearly 50% of the country’s foreign direct investment is linked to Beijing. The introduction of the zero-tariff policy is expected to further deepen this strategic partnership.

William Okeyo and Melvin Koech also contributed to the story.