Nigeria urged to focus on value-added exports to China
The Federal Government has emphasized the need for Nigeria to prioritize exporting value-added products over raw commodities under China’s zero-tariff policy. Aliyu Abdullahi, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, highlighted the opportunity to diversify exports and boost agro-industrial development. Yu Dunhai, Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, noted that the policy has already produced significant results for African countries and Nigeria. Officials stressed that improved market access must be matched by higher productivity, quality standards, and investment in processing.
TLDR
- Aliyu Abdullahi said Nigeria should export processed agricultural products, not just raw materials, to benefit from China’s zero-tariff policy.
- Yu Dunhai reported strong growth in Nigeria-China trade, with Nigerian exports to China surging and significant cost savings for exporters.
- Officials warned that zero tariffs alone are not enough; Nigeria must improve productivity, processing, logistics, and quality assurance.
- Calls were made for more investment in local manufacturing, technology transfer, and infrastructure to maximize the benefits.
- The seminar was organized to discuss how Nigeria and Africa can leverage China’s zero-tariff measures for economic transformation.
