China's zero-tariff policy boosts Nigeria's agricultural exports

Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai reported positive results from the zero-tariff policy implemented for 53 African countries as of May 1, 2026. According to the data, bilateral trade between China and Nigeria reached 18 billion dollars in the first half of 2026, which is 35 percent higher than the figures for the same period in 2025. At the same time, the volume of Chinese imports from Nigeria increased by 80 percent, amounting to 2.3 billion dollars.

The implementation of this initiative has reduced costs for Nigerian exporters. In particular, notable savings were recorded in the supply of sesame, bovine bone pellets, and liquefied propane. According to the Chinese side, the program not only expands market access for goods but also stimulates the development of local processing, warehouse logistics, and transport infrastructure.

The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, emphasized that the government aims to change the country's economic model, shifting from the primary export of raw materials to the development of production capacities and the creation of value added. Officials, including the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Nigeria-China Parliamentary Relations Ja’afaru Yakubu, noted the importance of this initiative for export diversification.

During a thematic seminar organized by the Center for China Studies in Abuja, experts pointed to the need to overcome internal barriers to fully utilize the benefits of the duty-free regime. Director of the Center Charles Onunaiju noted that for success, African producers need to raise product quality standards and strengthen regional value chains within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area. Among the constraining factors, infrastructure shortages, limited access to financing, and regulatory restrictions were also mentioned.