GAMBIA SECURES DUTY-FREE EXPORT DEAL WITH CHINA

Landmark Trade Agreements Open Chinese Market to Gambian Groundnuts and Cashew

The Gambia has taken a significant leap forward in its international trade ambitions after signing two landmark agreements with the People’s Republic of China, securing duty-free access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets for its leading agricultural exports—groundnuts and cashews. The historic signing took place during the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo and the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the implementation of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), held in Changsha, Hunan Province, from June 11 to 15, 2025. Representing The Gambia, the Hon. Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Mr. Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, formalized The Gambia’s participation by signing two key documents: the Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Development and the Protocol on Groundnut and Cashew. Strengthening Bilateral Economic Ties The Framework Agreement outlines a shared vision for deeper cooperation and mutual economic benefit, underscoring a commitment to reciprocity, sustainable growth, and strengthened trade relations between the two countries. The agreement provides a strategic platform to boost investment and trade flows, especially in agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Groundnut and Cashew Protocol: A Boost for Farmers The standout achievement of the mission is the Protocol on Groundnut and Cashew, which grants Gambian exporters duty-free access to the Chinese market under China's Duty-Free Quota-Free (DFQF) Market Access Preferential Scheme. This move is widely hailed as a game-changer for The Gambia’s agricultural economy. It is expected to: Open new and lucrative export opportunities for local farmers and processors Diversify The Gambia’s export markets beyond traditional regional partners Increase the contribution of agriculture to national GDP Attract further investment into the value chain of key cash crops "This agreement is a critical milestone in our efforts to secure sustainable international markets for Gambian products," said Minister Joof. "We are committed to building on this momentum to drive inclusive growth, empower our farmers, and strengthen our position in global trade." Commitment to Inclusive Economic Growth The agreements come at a time when The Gambia is actively pursuing economic diversification and trade-led growth. Through FOCAC and other bilateral engagements, the country aims to broaden its trade horizons while deepening strategic ties with global partners like China. Minister Joof reaffirmed the government’s dedication to expanding trade opportunities, enhancing export competitiveness, and improving market access for Gambian products through targeted diplomacy and investment promotion. A New Chapter in Gambia-China Relations The signing of these agreements marks a new era in Gambia-China cooperation. Analysts believe that this move not only strengthens bilateral relations but also positions The Gambia as a model for small economies seeking to integrate into global value chains through strategic partnerships. As the outcomes of the FOCAC framework begin to take shape, The Gambia stands to benefit from enhanced connectivity, market access, and sustainable development—hallmarks of a modern, forward-looking trade agenda. For more business and trade updates, follow [Newspaper Name] on [Social Media Handles]. Would you like this tailored for online publication, including SEO optimization and headline variations?