Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Yu Dunhai, has described the United States’ recent tariff measures as a backward step that has opened new doors for stronger economic cooperation between China and Nigeria.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Dunhai framed Washington’s protectionist policies as not only harmful to the global economy but also as a strategic opening for China and Africa’s largest economy to deepen bilateral ties.
Dunhai criticised the US for what he called an outdated “America First” agenda that undermines global trade norms and stifles progress in developing economies.
“The US aims to force other countries to submit through maximum pressure and make America great again. But this strategy will backfire, harming its own interests as much as others,” the ambassador said.
According to him, US tariffs have triggered inflation, devalued currencies, and disrupted stock markets across Africa.
In contrast, the ambassador underscored China’s commitment to multilateralism, fair trade, and support for Africa’s development.
He highlighted Chinese President Xi Jinping’s pledge during the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, which grants zero-tariff treatment to 100 percent of product categories from all least-developed countries with diplomatic ties to China — including Nigeria.
With bilateral trade between China and Nigeria reaching $22.5bn, he expressed optimism about expanding cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, and technology.
Dunhai cited ongoing Belt and Road Initiative projects such as railways, ports, and power stations as proof of the deepening economic partnership.
Dunhai urged Nigeria to seize the opportunity presented by shifting global trade dynamics, particularly the disruptions caused by US policy, to align more closely with China.
“Nigeria is a big market as it has over 200million population. So we would like to have more Chinese investments here in Nigeria. In fact, I was told that many investors came to Nigeria in the past months alone to explore opportunities especially in infrastructure and key connectivity.
“All in all, I see growing synergy between China and Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“So I am very optimistic there will be more opportunities for China and Nigeria moving forward.”
Reaffirming Beijing’s support for Nigeria’s development goals, he said, “Together, we will uphold the multilateral trading system, resist protectionism, and foster an open, inclusive, and fair international environment.
“Our shared goal is to advance an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation, building a community with a shared future for humanity.”
Citing data from US sources, the ambassador pointed to rising inflation and increasing public opposition to the tariff measures.
He referenced a recent CBS poll showing that nearly two-thirds of American voters disapprove of the tariffs, while noting inflation had driven egg and chicken prices up by over 30 percent in the past year.
The envoy called on the international community to reject the US tariff approach, describing resistance to unilateralism as an act of defending fairness, multilateralism, and global economic order.
“The international community must unite and fight back to defend our shared interests. Today, opposing US tariff abuse and bullying means upholding multilateralism and fairness and justice,” the ambassador stated.
China, he said, remains committed to defending its own interests and those of developing countries.
He emphasized China’s willingness to negotiate but only on equal terms and stressed the country’s readiness to respond firmly if provoked.
Recently, the US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day pause on tariffs for most countries, following a week of volatile global markets.
The decision, made after more than 75 countries approached the US for negotiations, marked a temporary easing of the ongoing trade war that has rattled the world economy.
However, Trump simultaneously imposed harsher tariffs on China, escalating tensions between the two largest economies.
While easing pressure on most countries, Trump criticised China for continuing what he described as “ripping off” the US.
Trump, who has long accused China of manipulating global markets, reiterated that the US would no longer tolerate unfair trade practices.
