Trade between Nigeria and China surged by 34.7 per cent to $15.48 billion in the first seven months of 2025 compared to the same period last year.

China’s Consul General in Lagos, Yan Yuqing, disclosed this during a reception celebrating China’s 76th founding anniversary, Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary, and the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Yuqing highlighted that Nigeria has become China’s second-largest trading partner in Africa, crediting the trade growth to the elevation of bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation summit. She noted that cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, energy, trade, culture, and education has been expanding, delivering tangible benefits to both countries.

Regarding the broader economic landscape, Yuqing said, despite global challenges, “China’s economy remained resilient with a 5.3% GDP growth in H1’25 and continued global leadership in innovation.” The envoy also praised the Chinese community in Nigeria for their role in cultural exchange, development, and charity, urging them to act as “bridge-builders” to further strengthen ties.

Yuqing pledged that the Consulate in Lagos will continue protecting the welfare of Chinese nationals and businesses in Nigeria, while ensuring efficient services. She further called on the Chinese community to “uphold unity, lawful business practices, and play an active role in fostering China-Nigeria cooperation, which…is being at its best stage in history with promising prospects ahead.”