Trade between Nigeria and China has seen a sharp rise in 2026, with Beijing’s imports from Nigeria climbing significantly in the first half of the year.Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, disclosed that China’s imports from Nigeria reached an additional $2.3 billion between January and June 2026.
This represents about an 80 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2025.The ambassador shared the figures on Friday in Abuja during an international seminar hosted by the Centre for China Studies, CCS.
The event focused on “China’s Zero-Tariff Measures and Africa’s Economic Structural Transformation.”Yu attributed the growth to expanded market access under China’s zero-tariff policy for African goods. He noted that the policy is designed to support African economies by making it easier for their products to enter the Chinese market and drive industrial diversification.
He added that China remains committed to deepening economic ties with Nigeria, particularly in agriculture, solid minerals, and manufacturing. According to the envoy, boosting bilateral trade is key to helping Nigeria reduce reliance on crude oil exports and strengthen value-added production.
