On May 11, the Chinese Embassy in Namibia held a seminar on the zero-tariff policy to provide an in-depth briefing on the significance of the zero-tariff measures. Around 20 Namibian economists, scholars and journalists attended the discussion. 

Chinese Ambassador Zhao Weiping chaired the seminar and answered questions from the guests, while Counsellor Wei Jinming of the Embassy introduced the background of China’s zero-tariff policy. Both of them noted that China is the first major economy in the world to unilaterally and comprehensively implement zero tariffs on all African countries with which it has diplomatic relations. The policy has demonstrated China’s strong sense of responsibility as a major country in actively promoting the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, and provided important opportunities for African countries, including Namibia, to expand foreign trade and achieve modernization. The Embassy also briefed participants on relevant support measures adopted by the Chinese side to ensure the effective implementation of the zero-tariff policy.

The Namibian side highly commended the zero-tariff policy, saying the initiative is a commendable move by China. They noted that it is a game changer for Africa and Namibia, and will help enhance the competitiveness of Namibian exports and accelerate the country’s industrialization process. Participants also said that Africa needs true friends like China.