China has opened the door to a sweeping trade advantage for Nigeria after its ambassador in Abuja, Yu Dunhai, confirmed that Beijing is ready to bring forward a zero tariff policy for Nigerian exports. The pledge marks a renewed drive to expand economic cooperation as both countries celebrate fifty five years of diplomatic ties and prepare for the 2026 China Africa Year of Cultural Exchanges.
The ambassador made the commitment during a meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar. Their talks centred on trade expansion and long term development goals that both governments hope will redefine the economic relationship.
Yu explained that the accelerated tariff waiver would strengthen confidence between the two nations and translate into real economic benefits for ordinary citizens. He said the China Nigeria strategic partnership has now moved into what he called the fast track, guided by new policy directions being prepared for China’s next Five Year Plan.
Read also:
- Anxiety as Nigeria’s foreign debts surpass $100 billion
- Building rail lines in Nigeria
- FG launches initiative to revitalize key economic sectors
He noted China’s resolve to pursue high standard development policies that support shared prosperity across global markets. Earlier in the year, Beijing granted full zero tariff treatment to all tariff lines from thirty three African countries with established diplomatic relations. Extending similar access to Nigeria ahead of schedule would position the country to take advantage of China’s broader trade concessions.
Tuggar welcomed the announcement and described China as one of Nigeria’s most important development partners. He praised Beijing’s steady support for Nigeria’s social and economic progress and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the One China principle. He added that Nigeria hopes to align its development priorities with China’s and expand cooperation in manufacturing, investment, and industrial growth.
