China wishes to see Togo increase its exports to the Chinese market, relying in particular on the zero-tariff policy and on “Green Corridors 2.0” intended for agricultural products. This orientation appears in a joint Sino-Togolese declaration published in Beijing at the end of the official visit of the President of the Togolese Council, Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé.
In the document, dated Thursday, Togo welcomes China’s application of a zero-tariff policy in favor of African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations. Lomé considers this decision proof of Beijing’s sincerity and good faith toward the continent, as well as of its willingness to broaden its trade openness.
The declaration also announces the signing of a protocol on plant quarantine requirements. This agreement is expected to facilitate access for Togolese soy to the Chinese market by defining the sanitary and phytosanitary standards required for export.
For Togo, this opening represents an opportunity to diversify its agricultural outlets and to add greater value to its local production. Soy, whose access to the Chinese market is now governed by a specific framework, could become one of the flagship products of bilateral trade.
The two countries have also agreed to deepen their cooperation in the areas of trade and investment. They intend in particular to rely on the Mixed Commission for Economic, Commercial, and Technical Cooperation to monitor the implementation of commitments and identify new joint projects.
This dynamic reflects the willingness of Beijing and Lomé to strengthen their economic relations. It could help promote better integration of Togolese products into Chinese value chains, while supporting Togo’s agricultural transformation and industrialization.
