Amb. Yu Dunhai, the Chinese ambassador to Nigeria, has called the latest tariffs imposed by the United States a step backward that has created opportunities for closer commercial ties between China and Nigeria.
During a news conference in Abuja on Friday, Dunhai presented Washington’s protectionist policies as both detrimental to the world economy and a calculated opportunity for China and the biggest economy in Africa to strengthen their bilateral ties.
Dunhai criticized the United States for what he saw as an antiquated “America First” ideology that impedes development in developing nations and threatens international trade standards.
“The United States wants to restore America’s greatness by applying as much pressure as possible on other nations to submit.” However, this tactic will backfire and hurt both its own and other interests, the ambassador stated.
He claims that US tariffs have caused currency devaluation, inflation, and stock market disruptions throughout Africa.
On the other hand, the ambassador emphasized China’s dedication to fair trade, multilateralism, and aiding Africa’s development.
“The United States wants to restore America’s greatness by applying as much pressure as possible on other nations to submit.” But, the ambassador said, this strategy will backfire and harm its own interests as well as those of others.
He asserts that US tariffs have disrupted the stock market, led to inflation, and devalued African currencies.
However, the envoy highlighted China’s commitment to multilateralism, fair trade, and supporting the development of Africa.
With a population of more than 200 million, Nigeria is a significant market. Therefore, greater Chinese investments in Nigeria are something we would like to see. According to what I was told, a lot of investors have visited Nigeria in the last few months to look at prospects, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and critical connectivity.
Overall, I believe that China and Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda are becoming more compatible.
“So, I am really hopeful that China and Nigeria will have more opportunities in the future.”
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 emphasised 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.
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