KEY POINTS
- China zero tariff policy for Nigeria will be rolled out ahead of schedule.
- Nigeria expects stronger manufacturing and trade ties under the new deal.
- China zero tariff policy for Nigeria deepens a long-standing strategic partnership.
China is preparing to accelerate a major trade concession for Africa’s largest economy, with its ambassador in Abuja announcing that Beijing is ready to fast-track a zero-tariff policy for Nigerian exports ahead of the previously agreed timeline. The move marks one of the clearest signals yet that both countries are gearing up for a new phase of economic engagement.
Ambassador Yu Dunhai disclosed the plan during talks with Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, in Abuja, where both sides reviewed trade priorities, investment opportunities and long-term cooperation goals. The announcement comes as the two countries celebrate 55 years of diplomatic ties and align preparations for the 2026 China–Africa Year of Cultural Exchanges.
Beijing accelerates China zero tariff policy for Nigeria
Yu said the early rollout would strengthen confidence between the two governments while delivering tangible benefits to businesses and consumers across both markets. He described the China–Nigeria comprehensive strategic partnership as entering “the fast track,” guided by policy directions in the Chinese Communist Party’s recommendations for the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan.
China, he added, remains committed to high-standard opening-up and development strategies designed to support shared global growth—a message consistent with Beijing’s expanding economic footprint across the continent.
Earlier this year, China granted zero-tariff treatment across all tariff lines to 33 African countries with formal diplomatic relations with Beijing, a step widely seen as part of China’s broader effort to reshape economic ties with Africa. Fast-tracking similar access for Nigeria would place the country among the foremost beneficiaries of China’s widening trade concessions.
Nigeria positions for gains under China zero tariff policy for Nigeria
Minister Tuggar welcomed the development, praising China as one of Nigeria’s most dependable strategic partners. He highlighted Beijing’s long-standing support for Nigeria’s social and economic advancement and reaffirmed Abuja’s commitment to the One China principle.
Tuggar said Nigeria intends to align its development strategies more closely with China’s in areas such as manufacturing, investment and broader industrial cooperation. He stressed that both nations will deepen their relationship in the coming years as they expand trade volumes and launch joint ventures.
