Ghana and China are set to conclude a landmark zero-tariff agreement by the end of October 2025, a move expected to significantly boost Ghana’s export competitiveness and deepen bilateral trade ties.

Announcing the development at the Presidential Investment Forum in Beijing, President John Dramani Mahama revealed that both countries had reached an agreement in principle on the framework for the deal.

“We reached agreement in principle, and we have targeted the end of October to be able to sign off on the zero-tariff principle,” President Mahama said.

The president described China’s decision to eliminate tariffs on Ghanaian and African products as a bold show of confidence and partnership, noting that it would open vast new markets for Ghanaian exporters, agro-processors, and manufacturers.

“China’s decision to grant zero-tariff access to Ghanaian and African products signals the confidence in our partnership,” he said.

“It opens vast new markets for Ghanaian exporters, agro processors and manufacturers.”

Trade between the two countries continues to flourish, with China maintaining its position as Ghana’s largest trading partner. Bilateral trade reached $11.8 billion in 2024 — a significant rise from previous years.

President Mahama framed the zero-tariff deal as a strategic response to rising global protectionism, commending China for maintaining open trade channels.

“I want to commend the government of China for this act of solidarity,” he stated.

“We are all aware that the multilateral rules-based trading system is being appended by unilateral slapping of tariffs on different countries. This is the time for us to solidarise and come together. And this initiative by China is very timely.”

The agreement also coincides with the 65th anniversary of Ghana-China diplomatic relations. Ghana was among the first sub-Saharan African nations to establish formal ties with the People’s Republic of China.

President Mahama noted that cooperation between the two countries extended beyond trade, citing China’s contributions through the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which have supported Ghana’s infrastructure, energy, and industrial growth.

Between 2013 and 2024, Chinese investments recorded by the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) totalled nearly $4 billion, covering more than 400 projects and creating thousands of jobs for Ghanaian youth.

President Mahama also reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to fostering a secure and welcoming environment for investors.

“Ghana guarantees the security of your capital and your profits,” he assured Chinese investors.

The upcoming zero-tariff deal, once finalised, is expected to usher in a new era of trade collaboration and economic opportunity between Ghana and China.