The Place of Commercial Diplomacy in Nigeria-China Relations

Abstract

Analysis of Nigeria and China relations has often been generalized with the best effort to break this down ending with economic diplomacy, yet this diplomatic relations encompass many aspects with its simultaneously agonizing and palatable consequences. This article analysed the contribution of commercial diplomacy in strengthening the overall relations between Nigeria and China. This was done not only for the singular purpose of bringing to the fore this almost neglected part of the relations but to also emphasis the danger of the overwhelming proliferation of Chinese goods in Nigerian Markets. The article used secondary data supported by empirical information from relevant bodies. The paper argues that the chief reason why China entered into diplomatic relations with Nigeria is for the exploitation of its large consumer population. Thus in analysing Nigeria-China relations emphasis should be on the commercial element .The conclusion derived from the available evidence is that Nigeria-China commercial diplomacy is a major contributory factor for the decline of the manufacturing sector in Nigeria. Hence, this paper advocates a renegotiation of the terms of commercial diplomacy between the two countries and the institutionalization of trade restrictions on the importation of goods that are produced in Nigeria.