Nigeria must export better, not more under China zero-tariff, FG

Nigeria should focus on enhancing the value of its exports rather than simply increasing the volume of raw materials, according to the Federal Government. This strategic shift is crucial following China's decision to grant zero-tariff access to goods from 53 African countries, a move that presents a significant opportunity for Nigeria's economic diversification.

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The question before us, therefore, is not, can Nigeria export more? The question should be, can Nigeria export better?

The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Aliyu Abdullahi, highlighted that this policy allows Nigeria to move beyond crude oil and accelerate the development of value-added products and agro-industries. He posed the critical question: "Can Nigeria export better?" rather than just "Can Nigeria export more?" Potential exports include processed cassava derivatives, premium rice, spices, hibiscus, cashew blends, soybean products, and fruits and vegetables that meet global quality benchmarks.

Abdullahi cautioned that zero tariffs alone are insufficient for success. He stressed the need for complementary improvements in agricultural productivity, modern processing facilities, efficient logistics, robust quality assurance, traceability systems, competitive financing, and adequate storage infrastructure. Meeting international sanitary and phytosanitary standards is also essential for Nigerian producers to capitalize on the Chinese market. The government is supporting this through initiatives like the Special Agro-Processing Zones Project to boost processing capacity.

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Zero tariffs alone do not guarantee success. Ladies and gentlemen, while the removal of tariffs creates opportunity, opportunities alone do not create prosperity.

China's Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, noted that the zero-tariff policy has already yielded positive results for Africa. Bilateral trade between China and Africa reached a record $207 billion in the first half of 2026. Chinese imports from Africa saw a 24% year-on-year increase between May and June, contributing to an approximate 6% overall growth in African exports to China. Nigeria, in particular, has experienced strong growth, with total bilateral trade reaching $18 billion in the first half of the year, a 35% increase year-on-year.

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Total bilateral trade reached $18 billion in the first half of the year, up 35 per cent year-on-year, while Chinese imports