Nigeria is seeking swift implementation of its new aquatic products protocol with China as Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe, Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai and other stakeholders push to turn the agreement into higher exports and stronger business opportunities.

Tegbe made the call during a courtesy visit and reception following the signing of the Nigeria-China Aquatic Products Protocol, which grants eligible Nigerian aquatic products zero-tariff access to China’s market of about 1.4 billion consumers.

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The agreement followed nearly five years of negotiations and is being viewed as a significant opportunity for Nigerian producers and exporters seeking to expand their presence in the Chinese market.

Tegbe said the focus should now shift from concluding the agreement to ensuring that Nigerian businesses can take advantage of it quickly and effectively.

He also praised the continued support of the Chinese Embassy for the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership, noting that stronger trade ties could help create new opportunities for businesses on both sides.

According to the minister, trade between Nigeria and China reached $18 billion in the first half of 2026, compared with $28 billion for the whole of 2025.

Tegbe said the aquatic products agreement could also help accelerate other trade initiatives, including efforts around a proposed zero-tariff arrangement for African countries.

Chinese Ambassador Yu reaffirmed the embassy’s commitment to supporting implementation and helping qualified Nigerian exporters access the Chinese market.

Yu described Tegbe’s appointment as evidence of his leadership, vision and pragmatism, while pointing to growing trade between the two countries as a sign of the potential for deeper cooperation.

The ambassador said bilateral trade increased by 35 per cent in the first half of 2026, while Nigerian exports to China rose by 80 per cent during the same period.

He also assured the minister of China’s support as Nigeria works to modernise and expand its power system.

For the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service, the agreement presents an opportunity to strengthen compliance support while exploring similar market-access arrangements for other agricultural and fishery products.

NAQS Comptroller-General Dr Vincent Isegbe said the global demand for aquatic products could provide a major boost to Nigeria’s exports to China if the opportunity is properly developed.

The private sector is also preparing to move quickly. Atlantic Shrimpers, which has engaged with the Chinese market since 2018, said it is ready to begin exports and has already identified potential buyers.

The development comes as Nigeria seeks to diversify its export base, increase foreign exchange earnings and give local producers greater access to international markets.

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Stakeholders agreed that implementation should be driven by clear targets and measurable results, with the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership expected to continue supporting deeper economic cooperation and sustainable opportunities for Nigerian businesses.