Kano, China strengthen bilateral relations on trade, investment, cultural exchange program

Kano State Government and the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria have agreed to enhance economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and investment opportunities. 

The meeting, held on Tuesday at the Chinese Embassy in Abuja, was hosted by His Excellency Wang Yingqi, the Minister Counselor and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Nigeria.

SolaceBase reports that discussions centred on job creation, non-oil exports, trade facilitation, taxation, and skill development, with both sides expressing commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. 

The Chinese Government pledged support for Kano’s economic growth and agreed to encourage Chinese businesses operating in the state to comply with tax regulations.

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The embassy also promised to assist in promoting Kano’s non-oil exports by ensuring that goods aggregated in the state are processed, packaged, and directly shipped from Kano.

According to the agreements, efforts will also be made to secure recognition of the Dala Inland Dry Port as a Port of Origin, easing trade processes for Kano-based exporters. 

Additionally, the embassy committed to attracting Chinese companies currently based in Lagos and Ogun State Free Trade Zones to invest in the Kano Free Trade Zone.

The discussions also covered cultural exchange programs, participation in the Canton Fair, and training opportunities for 40 Kano State Government officials in China. 

A key issue raised by the Kano delegation, led by the Commissioner for Investment, Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Alhaji Shehu Wada Sagagi was the restriction of mobile devices by Chinese brands such as TECNO, ITEL, and INFINIX, which prevent usage outside Nigeria.

Given Kano’s vast market that extends beyond the country, the state government sought the embassy’s intervention to lift such restrictions. 

The meeting also resulted in agreements to support investment in soap and detergent production, as well as vocational and technical training in industrial electrical wiring, phone and computer repairs, leatherwork, textile dyeing, and recycling. 

To enhance business relations, both parties agreed to establish an arbitration desk to address disputes between Kano and Chinese business communities.

In a remark, Alhaji Shehu Wada Sagagi described the visit as a success, emphasizing the significance of the newly established liaison desk and arbitration panel. 

“We have reached an agreement with the Chinese Embassy officials that we will have a liaison desk to facilitate communication between my ministry and the embassy.

“An arbitration panel will also be set up to resolve disputes between Kano and Chinese companies.

Additionally, we have secured recommendations for business participation in China and skill acquisition training for our youths,” he said. 

His Excellency Wang Yingqi reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Kano State’s economic development and strengthening ties in various sectors.

The partnership is expected to boost Kano’s industrial sector, enhance trade relations, and create more opportunities for economic growth in the state.