Nigeria-China trade hits $18bn in first half of 2026, up 35%
By Aboki Forex —
Trade between Nigeria and China reached 18 billion dollars in the first half of 2026, a 35 percent increase, as both countries move to deepen cooperation in industrialisation, technology, energy and trade.
The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Yu Dunhai, disclosed the figure in Abuja at a reception marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. He said China is ready to expand cooperation with Nigeria in industrialisation, the digital economy, green development and the blue economy.
China to align five-year plan with Renewed Hope Agenda
Ambassador Dunhai said China is prepared to align its 15th Five-Year Plan with President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that Chinese imports from Nigeria had increased by 81 percent.
He also highlighted China's zero-tariff treatment for eligible products from 53 African countries, which took effect on May 1, describing it as an opportunity to turn Africa's resources into greater industrial and export capacity. Chinese imports from Africa rose by 24 percent in May and June after the measure took effect, he said.
Reflecting on his two years in Nigeria, the ambassador said the experience had deepened his appreciation of the country and its people, whom he called resilient and optimistic.
"To embrace China is to embrace the future; to walk with China is to walk with opportunity," he said, urging both countries to use innovation, openness and cooperation to strengthen the partnership.
Tegbe: trade gains must show in Nigerian production
The Minister of Power and Director-General of the Nigeria-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Mr Joseph Tegbe, represented President Tinubu at the event. He said the relationship had evolved significantly since Nigeria and China established diplomatic ties on February 10, 1971.
Tegbe cited Chinese participation in major Nigerian infrastructure projects, including the Lekki Deep Seaport, railway modernisation and the Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Station. He stressed that such partnerships must deliver lasting benefits to Nigerians.
He said rising trade should be matched by stronger Nigerian production and increased exports to the Chinese market.
"Our shared task is to translate that asset into stronger Nigerian production and Nigerian exports to China, with benefits that will endure for both economies," he said.
Tegbe identified the power sector as another area with significant potential, particularly in electricity generation, renewable energy and local manufacturing of power equipment. He stressed the need to develop Nigerian engineers, technicians and local businesses capable of operating and maintaining infrastructure delivered through foreign partnerships.
He also reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to the One-China principle, saying Nigeria recognises the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government representing China.
More than 600 guests attended the reception, including senior government officials, members of the National Assembly, diplomats, representatives of international organisations, members of the Chinese community and other guests.
What it means for Nigerian businesses
The numbers point to a widening trade relationship, but the balance remains the issue. Chinese imports from Nigeria grew 81 percent, while the zero-tariff window for 53 African countries, in force since May 1, opens a route for Nigerian exporters who can meet Chinese standards and volume requirements. For local manufacturers and power equipment firms, the minister's push for local content suggests the next phase of Chinese partnership will be judged on how much of the work stays in Nigeria.