China, Nigeria Expand Trade Partnership as Lagos Hosts 2025 Commodities Expo

Nigeria and China have taken fresh steps to strengthen their economic ties as the 2025 China Commodities Expo opened in Lagos on Wednesday, bringing together hundreds of Chinese manufacturers and thousands of Nigerian business operators.

The three-day exhibition, organised by China’s Ministry of Commerce, is showcasing products across sectors such as automobiles, renewable energy, electronics, textiles, agriculture, and industrial machinery. It is expected to further boost a trade relationship already valued at over $20 billion in the first nine months of 2025, according to China Customs data.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, China’s Consul General in Lagos, Yan Yuqing, said the expo reflects Beijing’s long-term commitment to deeper trade cooperation with Nigeria. She noted that China intends to expand collaboration in areas such as digital technology, green energy, and infrastructure development, while also supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area agenda.

Yan also referenced China’s newly adopted Five-Year Plan, stating that it would open more opportunities for foreign partners and enhance Belt and Road investments across Africa. She highlighted major Chinese-funded projects already completed in Nigeria, including the Lagos-Ibadan railway, Lagos Blue Line rail and the Lekki Deep Sea Port, describing them as “evidence of practical cooperation with real economic impact.”

Wang Deyang, Deputy Director of the Trade Development Bureau under China’s Ministry of Commerce, confirmed that trade between both countries grew by 32.6% year-on-year, reaching $20 billion between January and September 2025. He said the Expo is expected to unlock new commercial partnerships and support industrial growth in Nigeria.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, said the event aligns with the state’s drive to position Lagos as West Africa’s leading trade hub. He urged Nigerian businesses to use the platform to negotiate technology transfer deals, strengthen local manufacturing, and diversify export earnings.

Over 250 Chinese companies and more than 5,000 participants are attending this year’s edition, which organisers say will foster stronger supply-chain integration between both countries.

The Expo runs until Friday, November 7, 2025.