Nigeria to Benefit from China’s Zero-Tariff Export Policy

Abuja, Nigeria — Nigeria is among 53 African countries set to enjoy zero-tariff treatment on all exports to China, an initiative officials say will significantly boost trade and economic cooperation between the two nations.

The announcement was made at the 2025 China–Nigeria Culture and Tourism Festival held in Abuja, where Chinese Deputy Ambassador Zhou Hongyou reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening ties with Africa’s largest economy.

“President Xi Jinping has pledged that China will implement zero tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines for 53 African countries, including Nigeria,” Zhou said. “This marks a new chapter in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and will open wider doors for Nigerian goods in the Chinese market.”

Deputy Ambassador Zhou, attending the festival for the first time, described the event as “a vibrant symbol of cultural diplomacy,” emphasizing the shared heritage and growing closeness between China and Nigeria through cultural and tourism exchanges.

Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, welcomed the policy, highlighting how culture and trade together strengthen bilateral relations.

“Culture and tourism are strong drivers of economic growth. With the zero-tariff policy, our creative industry, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors have greater opportunities in China,” he said. “Festivals like this foster cultural diplomacy, creative exchange, and mutual understanding.”

Ambassador Bolaji Akinremi, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs, described the festival as “a bridge of friendship,” underscoring the vital role of cultural cooperation in deepening Nigeria-China relations.

“This gathering testifies to the strong and friendly relations between Nigeria and China—two giants in their regions and influential partners in global development,” he added.

The colourful festival, co-hosted by the Chinese Cultural Center in Abuja and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, featured cultural performances, exhibitions, cuisine, and fashion from both countries, highlighting the growing partnership between Africa’s largest and Asia’s second-largest economies.

By Enoch  Odesola | August 17, 2025