Nigeria and China Strengthen Trade Partnership at 2025 Lagos Commodities Expo

Nigeria and China have restated their commitment to expanding trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. This happened during the 2025 China Commodities Expo, which opened at the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos. The Expo, organised by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, will run until November 7, 2025. According to China Customs, the trade value between both nations from January to September 2025 reached $20 billion, showing a strong and growing partnership.

The Chinese Consul General in Lagos, Yan Yuqing, said the Expo represents an important platform for both countries to expand business relations. She explained that China is committed to working with Nigeria in areas such as trade, industrial development, technology, and infrastructure. She described the exhibition as a reflection of the already strong cooperation between Nigeria and China, as well as a chance to create new business opportunities for companies in both countries.

Yuqing also spoke about China’s new long-term development plans and how they will open more doors for countries that engage in fair business relations. She highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative, noting that China wants to share progress and development with Nigeria and support economic growth across Africa. She added that China is prepared to deepen cooperation in areas including the digital economy, renewable energy, agriculture, and infrastructure improvement.

According to China Customs data, total trade between China and Africa in 2024 was valued at around $280 billion, with Nigeria contributing nearly $21.9 billion to the figure. Yuqing pointed out that China has been Africa’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years. She also mentioned major completed and ongoing Chinese-backed projects in Nigeria, such as the Lagos-Ibadan Railway, Lagos Light Rail, and the Lekki Deep Sea Port, which she said have helped boost Nigeria’s economy and improve transportation.

She explained that cooperation in the future will focus on industrial growth, green energy, and cultural exchange. This includes supporting Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, promoting renewable and eco-friendly projects, and encouraging more collaborations in education, science, and technology. Her message was that both countries will benefit more when they continue working closely.

The Deputy Director of the Trade Development Bureau of China’s Ministry of Commerce, Wang Deyang, also spoke at the event. He noted that although Nigeria and China are physically far apart, they share a strong economic interest. He said that trade between the two countries increased by 32.6 percent this year, a sign that business cooperation continues to expand. He added that the Expo will help companies form new partnerships and grow investments.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented at the event, highlighted how the Expo supports Nigeria’s goals for economic growth. He said Lagos is already a major trade hub in Africa and is ready to welcome more investment from China. He mentioned that facilities like the Lagos Free Zone and Lekki Deep Seaport are opening new doors for trade and industrialisation.

Sanwo-Olu also acknowledged the large number of exhibitors and business delegates who attended the Expo. He encouraged Nigerian business owners to use the opportunity to secure partnerships, learn new technology, and expand production. He noted that such cooperation can help Nigeria diversify its economy and create more jobs.

The 2025 China Commodities Expo is expected to lead to more trade and industrial cooperation between Nigeria and China, building on their long-standing relationship. Many believe the Expo will open new business opportunities and strengthen ties in key sectors that support economic development.