Ningbo-Africa trade tops 50 billion yuan in H1

Company workers calibrate smart coffee bean roasting equipment. [Photo by Li Qiaorou/Yongpai App]

Ningbo's trade with Africa surpassed 50 billion yuan ($7.38 billion) in the first half of 2026, reaching 50.63 billion yuan, up 17.7 percent year-on-year.

Exports climbed 18.3 percent to 28.85 billion yuan, while imports rose 16.8 percent to 21.77 billion yuan. The zero-tariff policy, which took effect on May 1, has reduced import costs and created new opportunities for businesses on both sides.

South Africa and the Democratic Republic of the Congo were Ningbo's leading import partners, while Nigeria and South Africa ranked among its top export destinations. Major imports included refined copper, metal ores, and agricultural products, while textiles, electrical equipment, and household appliances remained the city's key exports.

Local companies are already benefiting from the policy. Food processor Ningbo Chenghe Food plans to import 2,500 metric tons of South African fresh grapefruit this year for canned grapefruit production, with plans to expand sourcing through new farm partnerships. Meanwhile, Ningbo Xingye Shengtai Group increased its purchases of African electrolytic copper by 40 percent to support the production of high-end copper alloy materials.

Manufacturers are also tailoring products to African markets. Ningbo Longjia Motorcycle has developed upgraded three-wheel vehicles designed for North Africa's rugged road conditions, helping exports to Egypt, Algeria and Morocco grow by about 40 percent in the first half of the year.