Nigeria has been listed among 53 African countries set to enjoy zero-tariff treatment on all exports to China, a move officials describe as a landmark boost for trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
The announcement came during the 2025 China–Nigeria Culture and Tourism Festival in Abuja, where China’s Deputy Ambassador to Nigeria, Zhou Hongyou, reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to expanding its economic and cultural partnership with Africa’s largest economy.
“President Xi Jinping has pledged that China will implement zero tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines for 53 African countries, including Nigeria,” Zhou said. “This opens a new chapter in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and creates wider opportunities for Nigerian goods in the Chinese market.”
Zhou, who described the festival as “a vibrant symbol of cultural diplomacy,” highlighted that despite geographical distance, China and Nigeria share ancient civilizations and rich cultural heritage. He added that growing people-to-people exchanges in culture and tourism are key to building a stronger future together.
Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, said the tariff-free policy presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria’s creative industry, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors.
“Culture and tourism are not only about identity and heritage; they are powerful drivers of economic growth and job creation. With this zero-tariff policy, Nigerian businesses have greater access to the Chinese market,” he said.
Ambassador Bolaji Akinremi, who represented the Minister of Foreign Affairs, described the festival as “a bridge of friendship” that showcases the strength of Nigeria–China relations.
The colourful event, co-hosted by the Chinese Cultural Center in Abuja and Nigeria’s Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, featured cultural performances, exhibitions, cuisine, and fashion from both nations—underscoring how diplomacy through culture is reinforcing economic and political ties.
