ISTANBUL

China will implement zero-tariff measures for the 53 African countries it has diplomatic relations with starting on May 1, Chinese state-run outlet CGTN reported Saturday.

Beijing "will continue negotiating and signing joint economic partnership agreements, and further expand market access for African exports through upgraded mechanisms such as the 'green channel'," said a statement.

The policy would appear to cover almost the entire continent, which has 54 countries.

The development comes as the African Union is holding its annual summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The two-day gathering is expected to review major security crises across Africa, including Sudan, the Sahel region, and Somalia, along with discussions of climate action, economic reform, and institutional strengthening.