Chinese imports from Nigeria surged by 80% to $2.3 billion in the first half of 2026, driven by China’s new zero-tariff policy for African nations. Total bilateral trade reached $18 billion, a 35% year-on-year increase. While the policy has lowered costs for key exports like sesame and liquefied propane, Nigerian officials and experts emphasize that sustainable economic benefits require local value addition, improved product quality, and enhanced processing infrastructure to effectively leverage the Chinese market.