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Nigeria is set to deepen its trade engagement with China following the introduction of a zero-tariff policy on all Nigerian exports, scheduled to take effect from May 1, 2026. The move is expected to significantly expand market access for Nigerian businesses and strengthen bilateral economic relations.
The announcement was made in Abuja by Yu Dunhai, who confirmed that all Nigerian goods exported to China will enjoy duty-free entry under the new arrangement. The policy follows the signing of a framework agreement on economic partnership for shared development between both countries on March 26.
According to the envoy, the agreement establishes a stable and predictable foundation for long-term trade cooperation, positioning Nigeria for increased participation in global value chains. The development is also expected to enhance regulatory compliance and improve regulatory frameworks governing cross-border trade.
“With effect from May 1, all Nigerian products will enjoy zero tariffs when exported to China,” Dunhai stated, describing the initiative as a major milestone in bilateral relations.
The policy is anticipated to unlock new opportunities across key sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing, enabling Nigerian exporters to scale production and access one of the world’s largest consumer markets. This aligns with broader efforts to strengthen financial compliance, regulatory reporting, and compliance management systems in international trade operations.
Nigeria and China’s trade relationship has expanded significantly over the years, with bilateral trade volume exceeding $28bn in 2025—nearly ten times the level recorded in 2005. This growth reflects deepening economic ties and increasing collaboration across multiple sectors.
Dunhai noted that the zero-tariff initiative forms part of a wider strategy to promote China-Africa cooperation and South-South partnerships. He emphasised that the agreement will support economic diversification in Nigeria while encouraging sustainable trade practices and improved risk assessment in export activities.
The policy is also expected to strengthen Nigeria’s ongoing push to reduce dependence on oil revenues by boosting non-oil exports. By improving market access, it creates incentives for local producers to expand operations, adopt compliance technology, and meet international standards.
Industry stakeholders believe the development could address longstanding barriers to global trade, including limited access to competitive markets and stringent entry requirements. It also reinforces the importance of regulatory intelligence and regulatory compliance monitoring in navigating international trade frameworks.
In addition, the initiative complements broader government efforts to enhance industrialisation, promote agro-processing, and support small and medium-sized enterprises through improved access to global markets.
The agreement was highlighted during the launch of the Small Hydropower Centre of Excellence project, implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, further underscoring the role of multilateral partnerships in driving economic development.
China also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic growth through continued trade expansion, infrastructure investment, and industrial collaboration—key elements that contribute to stronger governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) frameworks and long-term economic resilience.
Overall, the zero-tariff policy marks a significant step toward enhancing Nigeria’s export competitiveness, strengthening bilateral trade, and advancing the country’s position in the global economy.
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