China To Accelerate Zero-tarrif On Nigerian Exports

The People’s Republic of China has pledged to assist Nigeria accelerate the implementation of zero tariff policy for Nigerian exports into China as both countries strengthen ties on development initiatives for mutual benefits.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, made this known in a statement on Friday after meeting with President Bola Tinubu, stressing that China- Nigeria bilateral relations have entered a “fast track” through joint efforts.

The envoy noted that the two countries have consistently understood and supported each other on issues concerning core interests adding that China supports Nigerian effort in combating terrorism.
Both sides spoke highly of the development of the China- Nigeria Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and agreed to further deepen practical cooperation across various fields for the mutual benefit of the two peoples.

“China stands ready to work closely with Nigeria to accelerate the implementation of zero tariff policy for Nigerian exports, strengthen the alignment of development strategies, consolidate strategic mutual trust and elevate bilateral relations to a new height,” Ambassador Yu said.

Prior to the visit to the Nigerian President, Ambassador Yu had on December 3 paid a visit to Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar to advance Nigeria–China strategic cooperation as both sides reviewed ongoing bilateral relations and exchanged views on global and regional developments.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson, ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.

The Chinese Ambassador commended Nigeria’s leadership role in West Africa and aligned with the Minister’s concerns regarding the mischaracterisation of regional crises, reaffirming China’s support for Nigeria’s security, stability, and sovereignty.

The meeting also discussed expanded areas of cooperation, including industrialisation, exploration, and processing of rare earth and critical minerals, technology transfer, migration, and capacity-building initiatives, among others. Both parties further examined China’s proposed “process solutions,” prospective investment partnerships, and opportunities for collaboration in the energy, manufacturing, and economic transformation sectors.

The meeting also agreed that the bilateral agreements currently under review are essential for unlocking these opportunities and reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening Nigeria–China cooperation for the mutual benefit of the people of both countries.