Nigeria Shines as Guest of Honour at 8th CIIE, Showcasing Global Competitiveness

Nigeria has taken center stage at the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) 2025 in Shanghai, captivating international attendees with a vibrant display of its rich agricultural resources, dynamic culture, and burgeoning industrial capabilities.

As a distinguished Guest Country of Honor at this year’s expo, the Nigerian pavilion is strategically positioning the nation as an eager and competitive player in the global market.

The Nigerian exhibit, a hub of activity and colour, is dedicated to showcasing the nation’s immense natural wealth beyond its traditional oil sector.

Key agricultural exports drawing significant attention include: Cocoa, Cashew, Sesame, Ginger.

These raw materials, vital to global supply chains, are presented alongside textiles and fashion items that highlight Nigeria’s creative industry and cultural heritage.

The display emphasizes the nation’s drive to move away from mere raw material export toward value-added processing and industrial growth.

This strategic shift aligns with the recent legislative reforms in Nigeria mandating 30% local value addition before export, a policy designed to boost domestic industrialization.

Beyond food and fashion, the Nigerian pavilion serves as a crucial platform for investment cooperation. Exhibits focusing on the energy sector and emerging industrial products reflect a national commitment to economic diversification.

High-level Nigerian officials, including Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, attended the opening ceremony, reaffirming Nigeria’s partnership with China.

“Nigeria views the Expo as a platform for partnership and shared prosperity… We are implementing reforms that stabilise the economy, boost investor confidence, and promote industrial growth.” – Speaker Abbas Tajudeen on Nigeria’s participation.

The presence of Nigeria as a Guest Country of Honor underscores the deepening strategic relationship between China and the West African powerhouse. China remains Nigeria’s largest trading partner, with total China-Africa trade reaching $222 billion in the first eight months of 2025.

The CIIE provides a pivotal opportunity to foster more balanced and mutually beneficial trade, paving the way for greater industrial and technological collaboration between the two nations.