Kano State Government and the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria have agreed to enhance their comparative advantage in trade, investment and cultural exchange.

The two entities reached a bilateral decision after engagements between the Kano State Ministry for Commerce, Trade and Industry and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Abuja.

The discussions centred on job creation, non-oil exports, trade facilitation, taxation, and skill development, during which both partners indicated an unwavering commitment to strengthening ties.

Leader of Kano delegation, the Commissioner for Commerce, Shehu Wada Sagagi disclosed that the Chinese Government pledged to support Kano’s economic growth and agreed to encourage Chinese businesses operating in the state to comply with tax regulations.

The Commissioner added that the Chinese Embassy, under the leadership of Wang Yingyi, the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, also promised to promote non-oil exports by ensuring goods aggregation, processed, and packaged, directly shipped from Kano to China.

Sagagi revealed that with the agreements, efforts will also be made to secure recognition of the Dala Inland Dry Port as a Port of Origin and destination for goods coming from China to Kano, which would ease hiccups during shipping.

Additionally, he said the Chinese 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 Kano. He raised issues concerning the restriction of mobile devices by Chinese brands such as TECNO, ITEL and INFINIX, which prevent usage outside Nigeria.

“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,” Sagagi said.

The Chinese ambassador, Yingqi, reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting Kano State’s economic development and strengthening ties in various sectors.

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