Nigeria: African countries are increasingly turning to China as a major trade partner following the imposition of steep U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump’s recent trade policies. Analysts say the tariffs are accelerating a shift in global trade dynamics, forcing African nations to diversify their economic partnerships.

In April 2025, Trump signed Executive Order 14257, introducing a 10% tariff on imports from 190 countries, including 20 African nations. This was followed by additional reciprocal tariffs on August 1, 2025, ranging from 11% to 50% for goods from 57 countries. Lesotho faced the highest increase at 50%, while Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo experienced 11% increases.

The tariffs effectively nullified the benefits African nations had previously enjoyed under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which had provided duty-free access to the U.S. market. Economists warn that the sudden shift has disrupted supply chains and trade relations, creating uncertainty for African economies.

China has seized the opportunity to strengthen its presence on the continent. Through the Belt and Road Initiative and other investment programs, China has expanded infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology projects across Africa. South Africa, one of the countries most affected by U.S. tariffs, is now seeking deeper economic cooperation with China, while also exploring new markets in Asia, Europe, and within Africa itself.

Experts note that this realignment in African trade is likely to have broader global implications. As African nations reduce reliance on the U.S. market, China stands to benefit from increased trade and investment opportunities, potentially reshaping supply chains and accelerating the continent’s integration with Asia’s economic sphere.

Observers say Trump’s tariffs, intended to protect U.S. interests, may inadvertently be driving African nations into China’s economic orbit, reshaping global trade patterns for years to come.