China supplied almost two out of every five goods imported into Nigeria in the first half of 2026. New trade figures show that Chinese goods worth N11.01 trillion entered Nigeria between January and June. That amount made up 39.27 per cent of the country’s total imports of N28.04 trillion. The figures highlight China’s growing role in Nigeria’s import market, even as the country’s overall import bill declined during the period.
According to data from the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria imported goods worth N28.04 trillion in the first six months of 2026. China accounted for N11.01 trillion of that amount. This means Chinese goods made up the largest share of Nigeria’s imports during the period. In comparison, Nigeria’s total import bill stood at N33.14 trillion in the first half of 2025. The latest figure therefore shows a 15.37 per cent drop in total imports.
However, China’s share of Nigeria’s imports increased despite the fall in the total import bill. Chinese goods accounted for 29.03 per cent of Nigeria’s imports in the first half of 2025. That share rose to 39.27 per cent in the first half of 2026. The increase points to a stronger dependence on Chinese products. It also shows the growing importance of China in Nigeria’s trade with the rest of the world.
The trend has important effects on Nigerian businesses and consumers. On one hand, Chinese products provide access to a wide range of goods at competitive prices. On the other hand, heavy reliance on imported products can put pressure on local manufacturers. Nigerian producers may struggle to compete when cheaper imported goods enter the market. At the same time, a large import market means Nigeria continues to send significant amounts of money abroad to pay for foreign goods.
Therefore, the latest figures raise questions about Nigeria’s drive to increase local production. The Federal Government has promoted policies aimed at boosting manufacturing and reducing dependence on imports. Yet, the rise in China’s share shows that local producers still face strong competition from foreign suppliers. As Nigeria works to strengthen its economy, the balance between imports, local production and consumer needs will remain important. The China Nigeria imports figures also show how closely Nigeria’s economy remains linked to global trade.
