China grants Nigeria Zero-Tariff access as Cultural Festival deepens ties

Nigeria is among 53 African countries set to enjoy zero-tariff treatment on all exports to China, in what officials describe as a major boost for trade and economic cooperation.

The announcement was made at the 2025 China–Nigeria Culture and Tourism Festival held in Abuja, where Chinese Deputy Ambassador Zhou Hongyou reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening ties 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, and this includes Nigeria,” Zhou said. “This marks a new chapter in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and will open wider doors for Nigerian goods in the Chinese market.”

Deputy Ambassador of China to Nigeria, Zhou Hongyou, described the event as “a vibrant symbol of cultural diplomacy,” adding that it was his first time visiting Nigeria.

“China and Nigeria are both ancient civilisations with a rich heritage. Despite the long distance, our people are growing closer through cultural and tourism exchanges,” he said. “Together, we can build a high-quality China–Nigeria community with a shared future.”

He added that cultural diplomacy was equally vital, noting that events like the Abuja festival showcase the shared heritage of both nations.

Nigeria’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, welcomed the development, stressing that culture and trade go hand-in-hand in strengthening relations.

“Culture and tourism are not only about identity and heritage; they are strong drivers of economic growth. With the zero-tariff policy, our creative industry, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors have greater opportunities in China,” he said.

“Festivals such as this are platforms for cultural diplomacy, creative exchange, and mutual understanding between nations,” he explained. “Culture and tourism are not only vehicles of identity and heritage but also powerful drivers of economic growth and job creation.”

Ambassador Bolaji Akinremi, who represented the Minister of Foreign Affairs, described the festival as “a bridge of friendship” that underscores how cultural cooperation is deepening bilateral relations.

He stressed that cultural partnerships between Nigeria and China remain vital in deepening bilateral relations.

“This gathering is a testimony to the strong and friendly relations between Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China—two giants in their regions and influential partners in global development,” he said.

The colourful festival, co-hosted by the Chinese Cultural Center in Abuja and the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, showcased cultural performances, exhibitions, cuisine, and fashion from both nations, highlighting the growing partnership between Africa’s largest economy and Asia’s second-largest economy.