Nigeria-China Trade Hits $18bn in H1 2026 with New Protocol

In the first half of 2026, Nigeria-China trade reached $18 billion, which is approximately 64% of the $28 billion recorded for the entire year of 2025, according to Joseph Tegbe, the Minister of Power. This announcement coincided with a courtesy visit from the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, following the signing of the Nigeria-China Aquatic Products Protocol.

This Protocol, finalized after nearly five years of negotiations, allows eligible Nigerian aquatic products to enter the Chinese market with zero tariffs, potentially enhancing exports and foreign exchange earnings. Tegbe emphasized the importance of translating this Protocol into measurable increases in Nigerian exports.

Yu Dunhai reported a 35% increase in bilateral trade and an 80% rise in Nigerian exports to China in the same period. The Comptroller-General of NAQS, Dr Vincent Isegbe, stated that the agency would assist exporters in meeting compliance requirements.

The private sector, including Atlantic Shrimpers, is prepared to leverage this agreement for exports.