China-Nigeria trade reached $18 billion in the first half of 2026, up 35 per cent from the previous year. Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, disclosed this at a Chinese Embassy reception in Abuja. He said Chinese imports from Nigeria jumped 81 per cent during the period.
“In the first half of this year, our bilateral trade reached $18 billion, up by 35 per cent,” Yu said.
He linked the growth to stronger economic ties and new trade agreements.
Meanwhile, China’s zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries is opening more export opportunities. The policy took effect on May 1. Yu said Chinese imports from Africa rose 24 per cent in May and June. He said the policy could help African countries turn natural resources into stronger industries. Nigeria and China have also signed agreements covering economic partnership and aquatic exports.
Beyond trade, both countries are exploring technology, energy and industrial development. Yu said China was ready to align its cooperation with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Key areas include industrialisation, digital development, and green and blue economies.
He also invited Nigeria to join the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization. According to him, AI, robotics and new technologies are creating fresh growth opportunities.
For Nigeria, the bigger goal is to turn stronger trade ties into local production and exports. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stressed this point during the event.
“Our shared task is to translate that asset into stronger Nigerian production and Nigerian exports to China,” he said.
The President also backed deeper cooperation in electricity, renewable energy and power equipment manufacturing. He called for greater investment in Nigerian engineers, technicians and local businesses.
Nigeria and China marked 55 years of diplomatic relations this year.
