Nigeria’s Top 10 Import Partners in Q3 2025: China, US, and India Lead the Pack

Nigeria’s import market in the third quarter of 2025 remained largely concentrated around a core group of global partners, reflecting the country’s reliance on foreign goods amid limited local manufacturing. Total imports for the quarter reached N161.23 trillion, signaling both rising domestic consumption and the ongoing need for international supply chains.

Data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) shows that just ten countries accounted for N12.76 trillion, or roughly 7.91% of Nigeria’s total imports during the period. This represents a significant 23.78% increase compared to the N10.31 trillion recorded from the same partners in Q3 2024, highlighting a steady growth in trade relationships.

At the top of the list is China, which continues to dominate Nigeria’s import landscape. Following closely are the United States and India, underscoring Nigeria’s diverse sourcing strategy that spans Asia, North America, and Europe. These countries supplied a mix of industrial, technological, and consumer goods critical to Nigeria’s economy.

Germany rounded out the top ten, exporting N279.82 billion worth of goods in Q3 2025. Key imports from Germany included vehicles, machine tools, electrical systems, and industrial components, demonstrating Nigeria’s dependence on advanced manufacturing inputs for both industry and infrastructure. Specific items ranged from sheets for veneering to frozen blue whiting fish meat.

The data underscores a growing challenge for Nigeria: while import volumes are rising, the nation’s local manufacturing capacity has yet to catch up. Analysts suggest that strengthening domestic production could reduce reliance on imports, improve trade balances, and create jobs, but for now, global partners remain critical to meeting Nigeria’s demand.

source: nairametrics