China will fully implement zero-tariff measures for 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations starting May 1, according to China Central Television.

The Chinese government also highlighted its push to promote the signing of Economic Partnership Agreements for shared development and to upgrade "green channels" to further expand African exports' access to the Chinese market.

The announcement was made as African heads of states gather in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, over the weekend for the African Union Summit.