Bilateral trade between Nigeria and China climbed to $15.48 billion in the first seven months of 2025, marking a 34.7% increase from the same period in 2024, according to Yan Yuqing, Consul-General of China in Lagos. Speaking at a reception on September 21, 2025, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Yuqing highlighted Nigeria’s position as China’s second-largest trading partner in Africa.
The growth in trade reflects deepening economic ties, bolstered by the elevation of Nigeria-China relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership during the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit. This milestone has paved the way for expanded collaboration across multiple sectors, including infrastructure, trade, energy, culture, and education.
Key Drivers of Trade Growth
Yuqing emphasized that the robust trade figures stem from a commitment to mutual respect and benefit, yielding significant outcomes for both nations. “From January to July 2025, our bilateral trade reached $15.483 billion, with cooperation in infrastructure, investment, energy, and cultural exchanges delivering tangible benefits to our people,” she stated.
China’s economy, which grew by 5.3% in the first half of 2025 despite global economic challenges, has further supported this trade surge. Nigeria, a key recipient of Chinese exports, imported N4.96 trillion worth of goods from China in the second quarter of 2025 alone, more than doubling the value of imports from the United States (N2.16 trillion). Major imports included machinery, refined petroleum products, and telecommunication equipment, underscoring China’s role as Nigeria’s leading supplier of industrial and consumer goods.
Broader Economic and Cultural Impact
Asia, led by China, accounted for 50% of Nigeria’s total imports in Q2 2025, with India, the Netherlands, and the United Arab Emirates also contributing significantly. Manufactured goods from China reached N7.88 trillion, while agricultural imports, primarily wheat from Canada and Russia, totaled N1.18 trillion.
Yuqing praised the Chinese community in Nigeria for fostering local development, cultural exchanges, and charitable initiatives, describing them as vital connectors in strengthening bilateral ties. She also reaffirmed the Consulate’s commitment to supporting the welfare of Chinese nationals in Nigeria and promoting further economic collaboration.
A Historic Partnership
Describing China-Nigeria relations as being at their “best in history,” Yuqing expressed optimism about future growth. The strategic partnership, combined with Nigeria’s position as a key African market, signals significant potential for continued economic and cultural cooperation. As both nations deepen their collaboration, the trade relationship is expected to drive further mutual benefits and regional influence.
