China extended zero tariffs to Nigeria as imports rose 81% in H1 2026
Chinese imports from Nigeria hit $2.25 billion in the first half of 2026 after Beijing removed all tariffs on Nigerian goods and other African products.
China extended zero-tariff treatment to products originating from Nigeria and 51 additional African nations effective May 1, 2026. This policy coincided with a year-on-year surge in Chinese imports from Nigeria reaching approximately $2.25 billion during the first half of 2026. Analysts noted that while the tariff removal likely influenced trade flows, other factors may also contribute to the volume increase. In contrast, U.S. Census Bureau data for January through June 2026 showed Nigerian exports to the United States at about $1.8 billion, while imports from Nigeria totaled roughly $2.9 billion. Officials in both nations are now discussing how to balance trade, investment, and technology transfer to establish a sustainable commercial relationship anchored by mutually beneficial exchange.
