China has expanded its zero-tariff policy to include a wider range of goods from 20 "middle-income" African nations, in addition to the 33 "least-developed" countries already covered. This policy, effective for two years, aims to reduce Africa's substantial trade imbalance with China by allowing various products, including eels and rare earths, to enter China tariff-free. The move raises questions about its effectiveness in fully closing the trade gap.