Nigeria Gains Duty-Free Access to Chinese Tariffs

Since May 1, 2026, Nigeria has enjoyed duty-free access across Chinese tariff lines, joining 52 other African countries in this arrangement. This initiative provides Nigerian exporters a two-year window to strengthen economic ties while longer-term partnership discussions continue.

At an Abuja seminar in August, China's Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, reported that bilateral trade reached $18 billion in the first half of 2026, marking a 35% year-on-year increase, with Chinese imports from Nigeria rising 80% to $2.3 billion. However, these figures include data from January to April, prior to the tariff policy's implementation.

The potential for Nigerian exports is significant, particularly in sectors like sesame, cocoa, and aquatic products, but exporters must meet Chinese buyers' expectations for quality and compliance. To succeed, Nigeria needs to improve supply chains and address challenges like port congestion and high transport costs.

The focus should be on adding value to exports rather than just increasing trade volume.