China has announced plans to fast-track zero-tariff access for Nigerian exports, a move expected to significantly deepen bilateral trade and economic cooperation between both countries.
The announcement was made during a meeting in Abuja between China’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, and Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar. The discussion focused on strengthening collaboration in trade, manufacturing, investment, and industrial development as both nations prepare to mark 55 years of diplomatic relations.
Ambassador Yu stated that China is ready to implement the zero-tariff policy for Nigerian goods “at an early date,” as part of Beijing’s broader strategy to expand duty-free market access for African countries. He noted that the policy aligns with China’s long-term economic planning and its commitment to building a stronger China–Africa economic partnership based on mutual development.
According to Chinese officials, the zero-tariff initiative is designed to support African exports, encourage value-added production, and promote more balanced trade relations. Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, is expected to be among the major beneficiaries once implementation begins.
Foreign Affairs Minister Tuggar welcomed the development, describing it as a strategic opportunity to boost Nigeria’s non-oil exports, attract investment into manufacturing, and create employment. He stressed Nigeria’s readiness to work with Chinese authorities to ensure Nigerian products meet required standards and to maximize the benefits of the policy.
Currently, trade between Nigeria and China is dominated by manufactured goods from China, while Nigeria’s exports largely consist of raw materials. Analysts say zero-tariff access could help Nigerian exporters gain a stronger foothold in the Chinese market, particularly in agriculture, solid minerals, and light manufacturing, if domestic production capacity and quality standards improve.
However, observers also caution that tariff removal alone may not be enough. Challenges such as export logistics, regulatory compliance, infrastructure deficits, and competitiveness of local industries will play a key role in determining how much Nigeria ultimately gains from the policy.
The move comes amid China’s renewed push to strengthen economic ties with Africa, positioning trade and investment as central pillars of its diplomatic engagement. For Nigeria, the fast-tracked zero-tariff access presents both an opportunity to diversify exports and a test of its ability to translate diplomatic commitments into tangible economic gains.