In a significant move set to boost bilateral trade, the Chinese government has declared its readiness to implement a zero-tariff policy on goods exported from Nigeria ahead of schedule. This commitment was made by the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, during a high-level meeting in Abuja.
Diplomatic Milestone Spurs Trade Acceleration
Ambassador Yu Dunhai revealed this development during talks with Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. The envoy stated that China is prepared to roll out the tariff-free treatment earlier than planned as a key part of celebrations marking 55 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The initiative also aligns with the upcoming 2026 China-Africa Year of Cultural Exchanges. Ambassador Yu emphasised that these efforts are designed to strengthen strategic trust, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and deliver more tangible benefits to the citizens of both countries.
Fast-Tracking a Strategic Partnership
The Chinese diplomat noted that the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Nigeria is now on a "fast track," thanks to joint efforts from both sides. He linked the policy to China's broader commitment to high-standard opening-up, as outlined in the proposals for its 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development.
"China and Nigeria have always understood and supported each other on issues of core interests," Yu stated, adding China's support for Nigeria's fight against terrorism. He confirmed, "China is ready to work with Nigeria to implement zero-tariff treatment for Nigerian exports at an early date, and to make good preparations for the upcoming anniversary and cultural exchange year."
Nigeria's Firm Commitment and Broader Context
In his response, Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar reaffirmed the strength of the bilateral relationship, describing China as Nigeria's "comprehensive strategic partner." He commended China's active support for Nigeria's socio-economic development and reiterated Nigeria's firm adherence to the One-China principle.
Tuggar expressed Nigeria's readiness to strengthen the alignment of development strategies and expand cooperation in key areas like manufacturing, trade, and investment to elevate bilateral relations to new heights.
This latest development follows China's earlier announcement this year to extend zero-tariff treatment to cover 100% of tariff lines for all 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic ties. The policy is a cornerstone of the new China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development, a framework aimed at:
- Accelerating Africa's integration into global trade.
- Improving customs procedures and market access.
- Strengthening institutional trade capacity.
It represents a strategic shift by China to support industrialisation in Africa, diversify its imports, and build economic links that go beyond the exchange of raw materials. Yesterday's high-level meeting has now set the stage for the accelerated implementation of this transformative policy for Nigeria.
