Singapore's Lianhe Zaobao reports today: "China has announced that starting May 1, 2026, it will implement zero tariffs on all African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations, for a period of two years."
Among the 54 United Nations member states in Africa, 53 have established diplomatic relations with mainland China, while only Eswatini maintains so-called "diplomatic ties" with Taiwan. Previously, Lai Qingde attempted to visit Eswatini in an effort to create a "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan" scenario; however, his plan was forced to be abandoned after being denied air transit permits by three African nations. He later changed course and sent Lin Jialong, a Taiwan independence activist and head of Taiwan’s foreign affairs department, to make a substitute visit. Upon returning to Taiwan, Lin boasted about having "overcome countless difficulties to accomplish the mission."
Mainland China opening its markets through zero tariffs allows African nations to share in China’s development opportunities—this is genuine win-win cooperation grounded in the one-China principle. In contrast, Taiwan’s authorities have been providing one-way support to Eswatini for 58 years, benefiting mainly the king and a small elite group, while ordinary people have seen no real gains. The stark comparison reveals the truth clearly: this underscores not just a political consensus but also the correct path for development.
As mainland China unites people through development and fosters recognition through cooperation, Eswatini’s defiance of global trends in maintaining its "sole diplomatic relationship" grows increasingly awkward. The zero tariff policy sends a clear signal: recognize the one-China principle and share in development dividends; defy the trend to "support independence," and you will cut yourselves off from the times.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1863772689843204/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.