The organisers of the 2024 China Commodities Expo-Nigeria have announced that the event will strengthen trade ties between China and Nigeria, fostering future collaboration and growth. Scheduled to take place from November 5-8, 2024, in Lagos, the expo is being organised by Brightway International Exhibition and the Trade Development Bureau of China’s Ministry of Commerce, with support from the Chinese Consulate in Lagos and Nigerian government entities.
According to a statement from the organisers, the expo will feature over 250 Chinese manufacturers and is expected to attract more than 5,000 buyers from Nigeria and neighbouring countries. The event aims to provide a platform for businesses to explore trade and investment opportunities, further enhancing the already strong China-Nigeria trade relationship.
Nigeria is currently China’s second-largest African trading partner, and China is Nigeria’s top import source. In 2022, bilateral trade between the two countries reached $23.9 billion, with China exporting $22.3 billion worth of goods to Nigeria and importing $1.6 billion in return. In the first three quarters of 2023, bilateral trade hit $17.25 billion, with a notable 22.5% increase in imports from Nigeria compared to the same period in 2022.
The Chief Representative Officer of Brightway International Exhibition, Mr. Muheez Ojulari, highlighted the long-standing impact of the expo, which has been held annually in Nigeria since 2007. “The exhibition has become a well-known local brand, serving as a crucial bridge to deepen China-Nigeria cooperation across various sectors,” Ojulari said.
He emphasized that the expo would offer a direct platform for enterprises to explore trade and investment opportunities, including a special session for local delegations and enterprise representatives to promote business initiatives. This is expected to boost job creation, poverty reduction, and significant economic growth in Nigeria, while also attracting venture capital to support innovative business ideas, particularly from Nigeria’s youth.
Ojulari further noted that the expo provides a valuable networking opportunity for participants to connect with leading Chinese manufacturers, discover new suppliers, and seek investment for promising ventures. He expressed optimism about strengthening China-Africa cooperation, aiming for a more comprehensive economic and trade relationship that benefits both regions.
With Nigeria’s growing importance in China-Africa relations, the 2024 China Commodities Expo-Nigeria is expected to play a vital role in enhancing bilateral trade and fostering long-term partnerships.
