Chinese Manufacturers Turn to Nigeria as U.S. Tariffs Stall Exports

• Chinese manufacturers are shifting focus to emerging markets like Nigeria due to the steep U.S. tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, which have caused a drastic drop in American orders.

• Some exporters report frozen or delayed U.S. demand, with companies like Zealot and Conmo Electronics turning to Nigeria.

Chinese manufacturers are redirecting their focus to Nigeria and other emerging markets as tough U.S. tariffs continue to cripple exports to the world’s largest economy.

Following President Donald Trump’s April 2 tariff hike—raising duties on Chinese goods by a staggering 145%—companies say American orders have vanished.

“It’s a matter of life and death because 60–70% of our business is with American clients,” said Candice Li, marketing manager at Conmo Electronic Co.

“Goods cannot be exported and money cannot be collected. This is very severe.”

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Zealot’s sales manager, David Du, shared that while a major U.S. order from Skechers was paused due to tariffs, Nigeria now accounts for 40% of the company’s total sales.

“We are as big as JBL in Nigeria,” Du said, referencing the U.S. audio giant. Overall, China’s exports to Nigeria hit $15.1 billion by Q3 2024, led by electronics, machinery, and vehicles. Exports surged 12% in March, with analysts pointing to frontloaded orders ahead of Trump’s tariff deadline.