Zanzibar Cloves exports warehouse
Farmers and exporters in Zanzibar are expecting stronger demand and improved prices after China expanded tariff-free access to imports from 53 African countries, opening the door to more direct spice exports.
Ally Hassan, a farmer and other exporters have converge on spice plantations alongside harvesting cloves using traditional methods, while workers prepare shipments for export.
“This opportunity to export spices without tariffs will benefit us, both small-scale farmers and small traders,” . “We will gain because prices will increase. We are still harvesting locally using knives and machetes, but if we had machines, we could harvest more easily, faster, and in larger quantities .Starting the first of May, exporting spices becomes more affordable,” Hassan said.
Hassan said Zanzibar’s spices, including cloves and cinnamon, are well-suited for export due to their quality and shelf life.
Shift in Trade Dynamics
The policy, which came into effect on May 1, 2026, grants full duty-free access to a wide range of African exports, marking a shift in trade dynamics.
Exporters say the move could reduce reliance on intermediaries and improve direct market access.
To Said Ali, Managing Director of ZSTC, “For a long time, we have been selling our cloves through agents in different markets. We were not able to access the Chinese market directly, but through this zero-tariff policy, we will be able to export our cloves.”
Ali said preparations are underway to meet China’s import standards, including certification and health requirements, ahead of the next harvest season.
“Beyond exporting raw cloves, we see China as a large future market where we can collaborate to improve technology, especially in adding value to our products,” he added.
The Spice Island
Zanzibar, often referred to as the ‘Spice Island’, relies heavily on clove exports as a key economic driver.
The tariff policy expansion builds on earlier commitments made through China–Africa cooperation frameworks aimed at strengthening trade ties.
More : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TcHj5u7tPlM
Source: Viory/ CGTN Arica
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