Trade between Nigeria and China reached about $18 billion in the first half of 2026, strengthening economic ties between both countries and creating new opportunities for Nigerian exporters.
Federal officials disclosed the figure as Nigeria moved to implement a new agreement giving eligible aquatic products zero tariff access to the Chinese market.
The Nigeria China Aquatic Products Protocol was concluded after nearly five years of negotiations.
Officials said the arrangement could expand exports, increase foreign exchange earnings and create new business opportunities for producers in Nigeria’s fishery and aquatic products industry.
Power Minister Joseph Tegbe said first half trade represented a substantial portion of the $28 billion recorded for the entire previous year.
Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai said bilateral trade had increased by about 35 per cent, while Nigerian exports to China rose by roughly 80 per cent during the same period.
The ambassador said China was prepared to support qualified Nigerian exporters seeking access to its market of about 1.4 billion consumers.
The Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service said it would assist companies in meeting sanitary, inspection and compliance requirements.
Officials also said the success of the aquatic products agreement could create a pathway for similar market access arrangements covering other agricultural exports.
Private sector participants, including established seafood exporters, said they had already identified potential buyers and were preparing to take advantage of the new framework.
Both governments said the next priority would be implementation, with emphasis on measurable increases in Nigerian exports and deeper participation by local businesses.
