Nigeria Records First Export Under China's Expanded Zero Tariff Policy

Nigeria has recorded its first export under China's expanded zero tariff policy for African imports, with a shipment of 252 metric tonnes of palm kernel shell activated carbon entering the Hainan Free Trade Port duty free.

Haikou Customs confirmed that the consignment is the first cargo to benefit from the new trade arrangement since the policy came into effect on May 1, 2026.

The development marks a significant milestone in Nigeria-China trade relations and highlights the opportunities created by China's decision to expand tariff-free access to goods from Africa.

China had earlier announced the policy, extending zero tariff treatment to imports from all 53 African countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Beijing. 

The initiative is aimed at deepening economic cooperation, improving market access for African products and strengthening bilateral trade.

The policy is also expected to support industrial development across the continent while helping African exporters remain competitive amid growing protectionist trade measures in the global economy.

According to China's Ministry of Commerce, the expanded zero tariff arrangement is intended not only to increase imports from Africa but also to encourage greater Chinese investment in the continent's manufacturing sector, thereby promoting value addition and industrialisation.

Chinese authorities said the initiative significantly broadens preferential market access for African exports and forms part of broader efforts to enhance economic cooperation between China and African countries.

Officials further explained that the current arrangement is a transitional measure designed to facilitate negotiations on the proposed China-Africa Economic Partnership for Shared Development agreement.

When concluded, the agreement is expected to provide a permanent institutional framework for the zero-tariff policy, creating a more predictable and sustainable trade environment for African exporters, including Nigeria.