By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
SWIFT IMPLEMENTATION of the Nigeria-China Aquatic Products Protocol (NCAPP) has been urged to drive higher exports, boost foreign exchange earnings and create stronger opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
JKNewsMedia.com reports that the protocol, according to a statement issued, concluded after nearly five years of negotiations, grants eligible Nigerian aquatic products zero-tariff access to China’s market of 1.4 billion consumers.
It says the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, called for swift implementation of the agreement during a courtesy visit and reception following its signing.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Yu Dunhai, attended the event alongside Zhu Songbo, the Embassy’s Chief of Political Section and Deputy Director of the Economic and Commercial Section (PSDDECS), the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service, Dr Vincent Isegbe, and representatives of the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP).
Tegbe thanked the Ambassador for his continued support for the NCSP in promoting trade and business relations between both countries.
He said trade volume reached $18 billion in the first half of 2026, compared with $28 billion for the whole of 2025.
The Minister said successful implementation of the protocol would help fast-track other initiatives, including the Zero Tariff Agreement for African (ZTAA) countries, and urged Nigerian exporters to move quickly to capture the opportunity.
Ambassador Yu reaffirmed the Chinese Embassy’s commitment to supporting implementation and facilitating qualified Nigerian exports into the Chinese market.
He cited a 35% rise in bilateral trade and an 80% increase in Nigerian exports in the first half of 2026 as evidence of untapped potential for cooperation.
He also assured the Minister of the Chinese government’s support as Nigeria seeks to modernise and expand its power system.
JKNewsMedia.com also reports that Isegbe reaffirmed NAQS’s commitment to supporting compliance and pointed to opportunities for similar market access agreements covering other agricultural and fishery products.
He said global demand for aquatic products could double Nigeria’s exports to China if properly leveraged.
Atlantic Shrimpers, representing the private sector, said it was ready to begin exports and had already identified buyers. The company’s engagement with the Chinese market dates to 2018.
Stakeholders agreed to prioritise implementation and measurable outcomes, while the NCSP continues to drive deeper economic cooperation, increased exports and sustainable opportunities for Nigerian businesses.
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