Nigeria, May 11 -- China's decision to extend tariff-free access from 1 May to all African countries, barring Eswatini (with which it maintains no diplomatic ties), has been widely welcomed across the continent. At a moment when global trade is fragmenting and protectionism is rising, Beijing's move appears to offer a rare expansion of market access.

Yet beyond the positive optics lies a more pragmatic reality in which Beijing's long-term strategic interests may simply reinforce existing trade dynamics.

At first glance, the timing of Beijing's decision invites comparison with Washington's decisive weaponisation of tariffs to reshape supply chains, counter its rivals, and reassert its economic dominance even among traditionally close all...