Nigeria has been accorded the prestigious role of Guest Country of Honor at the upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025), scheduled to hold from 5th–10th November 2025 in Shanghai, China. This recognition not only underscores Nigeria’s importance as Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation but also provides a unique opportunity to deepen economic ties with China and expand its global trade footprint.
Why CIIE Matters
The China International Import Expo (CIIE) is the world’s largest import-themed trade fair, attracting:
- 145+ countries and regions
- 3,000+ enterprises
- 400,000+ trade visitors annually
For Nigeria, being Guest Country of Honor secures:
- Exclusive exhibition space
- Prime positioning at the venue for maximum visibility
- Priority engagement for government officials and business leaders
- Reaffirming Nigeria’s position as the trade giant of Africa
This platform offers unparalleled access for Nigerian businesses, states, and cultural ambassadors to showcase their products, services, and heritage to a truly global audience.
Opportunities for Nigerian Participants
1. Export Growth
CIIE provides a ready market for Nigerian goods in China and beyond. Export-ready sectors include:
- Agriculture: Palm oil, cocoa, sesame, cashew, hibiscus, ginger, fruits.
- Solid Minerals: Gold, limestone, tin, lithium.
- Manufacturing: Leather, textiles, footwear, processed foods.
- Creative Economy: Fashion, music, literature, and film.
By presenting high-quality, export-ready products, Nigerian businesses can access new supply chains, long-term buyers, and distribution networks.
2. Investment Partnerships
Chinese investors are actively seeking opportunities in Africa, especially in:
- Agro-processing and value addition
- Mining and beneficiation industries
- Infrastructure and logistics
- Renewable energy and manufacturing
States and private companies can leverage CIIE to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), industrial partnerships, and technology transfer deals.
3. Financial Sector Engagement
Nigerian banks and FinTech companies stand to benefit by:
- Offering export financing and payment solutions
- Building correspondent relationships with Chinese financial institutions
- Facilitating secure Naira–RMB trade transactions
Institutions such as eTranzact NEXIM Bank, Bank of Industry, and Commercial Banks have an opportunity to demonstrate their leadership in trade facilitation.
4. Cultural Diplomacy
Beyond business, CIIE offers Nigeria a stage to showcase its rich cultural heritage and creative power:
- Daily music, dance, and fashion performances at the Nigeria Pavilion.
- Culinary experiences featuring Nigeria’s diverse cuisine.
- Display of art, literature, and festivals that position Nigeria as Africa’s cultural giant.
This strengthens soft power diplomacy, deepening people-to-people ties between Nigeria and China.
Closing the Trade Gap
Trade between Nigeria and China remains heavily imbalanced. In 2023, China exported $20.18 billion worth of goods to Nigeria, while Nigeria exported only $2.37 billion in return.
CIIE 2025 is a strategic chance to narrow this gap by:
- Boosting Nigeria’s export presence in China.
- Promoting locally processed goods instead of raw materials.
- Securing long-term contracts for agricultural and manufactured exports.
A Call to Action
Nigeria’s success at CIIE depends on broad participation across sectors:
- State Governments: Showcase investment and tourism opportunities.
- Exporters & Manufacturers: Present competitive products for the Chinese market.
- SME Participation: Provide platform for SME’s to showcase their products and services and an opportunity for investment to scale their market
- Banks & FinTechs: Provide trade finance and payment solutions.
- Creative & Cultural Industries: Strengthen Nigeria’s soft power.
By working together under a coordinated national framework, Nigeria can leverage CIIE 2025 to boost exports, attract investments, and reposition itself as a global trade hub.
Written By
Angelina Bond Esq.
Analyst
Gamayun Heights Consulting 