China Removes Tariffs on Nigerian Exports, Signals Stronger Economic Ties with Africa

In a landmark policy shift, China has removed all tariffs on imports from Nigeria and 52 other African countries, aiming to strengthen economic ties with the continent and reinforce its position as Africa’s most dependable trade partner.

The announcement, made after a high-level China-Africa meeting in Changsha, marks a significant expansion of Beijing’s zero-tariff policy. Previously reserved for Africa’s least-developed nations, the new initiative now covers 100% of tariff lines for all African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China.

Eswatini is the only African country excluded, due to its recognition of Taiwan — a position at odds with Beijing’s “One China” policy.

Why This Matters: A Major Win for Nigerian Exporters

For Nigerian manufacturers, MSMEs, and agribusinesses, this decision opens the floodgates to duty-free access to the world’s second-largest economy. With China’s import demand surging, this creates a rare opportunity to diversify export markets beyond oil and raw materials.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that exports from China to Africa rose by 12.4% in the first five months of the year, totalling 963 billion yuan (about $134 billion). With tariffs now lifted on African imports, a counter-surge of African exports to China is expected, especially in key sectors like:

• Agricultural produce (ginger, sesame seeds, cocoa, cashew)
• Textiles and fashion
• Solid minerals and semi-processed goods
• Creative products and culture-based commodities

Strategic Timing: As U.S.-Africa Trade Relations Falter

This move by China comes amid rising tensions between Africa and the United States. Under former President Donald Trump, the U.S. imposed steep tariffs on several African nations, ranging from 31% on South Africa to 50% on Lesotho, casting uncertainty over the future of AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act), a U.S. trade program that has offered African countries duty-free access to American markets since 2000.

With AGOA’s renewal up in the air, China’s trade diplomacy appears not only timely but strategic. The China-Africa joint communiqué even called on the U.S. and other global powers to adopt “mutually respectful dialogue” to resolve trade tensions.

Implications: A Realignment in Africa’s Global Trade Partnerships

For Africa—and Nigeria in particular—this is more than a trade benefit; it is a geopolitical signal. China’s trade overture underscores its long-term vision for Africa as a strategic ally, supplier, and market.

✅ Key implications for Nigeria:

• Stronger supply chain integration with Chinese manufacturers
• Potential surge in non-oil exports
• New leverage in global trade negotiations
• Better terms for investment and technology transfer

However, to take full advantage, Nigeria must improve product quality, certifications, logistics efficiency, and export readiness, especially for micro- and small-scale businesses. The role of government trade agencies, export councils, and private sector platforms becomes more critical than ever.