The Director General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Joseph Tegbe, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s strategic focus on global trade dynamics during a high-level meeting with Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai at the Chinese Embassy in Abuja on April 17, 2025.
The meeting was convened to further the NCSP’s mission of deepening economic and diplomatic collaboration between Nigeria and China, particularly amid shifting global trade patterns.
During the engagement, the DG highlighted insights from his recent visit to China, where he held discussions with top Chinese firms including SINOMACH-HE and China National Electrical Engineering Company (CNEEC). He noted that the ongoing global tariff disputes, particularly between the US and China, have introduced fresh challenges and opportunities for emerging economies like Nigeria.
“We see these global tensions as a unique opportunity for Nigeria to position itself as a manufacturing and export hub—not just for Africa, but the world,” said Tegbe. “We are urging Chinese partners to establish manufacturing plants locally and share technical expertise, capitalizing on Nigeria’s favourable trade agreements.”
Ambassador Yu Dunhai echoed concerns about the tariff conflicts and their ripple effects on developing economies. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening strategic ties with Nigeria, especially in agriculture and manufacturing.
Referencing the recent Memorandum of Understanding signed at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) on shelled peanut exports, the Ambassador noted China’s willingness to reduce or eliminate tariffs on Nigerian products to boost bilateral trade.
Both parties agreed to fast-track the implementation of existing MOUs and protocols—particularly those relating to aquatic seafood and soybeans—to open new export pathways for Nigerian producers.
The meeting also reviewed ongoing regulatory and legal frameworks, with a shared goal of ensuring smoother and more transparent business operations between the two nations. DG Tegbe pledged to continue engagement with key ministries and regulatory agencies to enhance Nigeria’s export readiness and attractiveness to foreign investors.
“This dialogue underscores our commitment to a mutually beneficial partnership with China—one that promotes industrialization, export growth, and sustainable economic development,” Tegbe stated.
This strategic meeting serves as a reaffirmation of the deepening cooperation between Nigeria and China and highlights the growing momentum behind their shared economic vision.
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