Nigerian Goods Shine in US Market :$643m Imports in 2months

The United States has imported Nigerian goods valued at approximately $643 million within the first two months of 2025, according to recent data released by the US Department of Commerce.
This significant trade volume underscores the continuing economic relationship between both nations, with Nigeria maintaining its position as one of America’s key African trading partners. The figure represents a modest increase compared to the same period last year, when imports stood at $621 million.
Analysis of the import data reveals that crude oil continues to dominate the trade relationship, accounting for roughly 78% of the total import value. However, non-oil exports from Nigeria, including agricultural products, minerals, and manufactured goods, have shown encouraging growth, reaching nearly $141 million during the period under review.
Agricultural exports, particularly cocoa, cashew nuts, and sesame seeds, contributed significantly to the non-oil export basket. Nigeria’s burgeoning cashew industry has particularly benefited from increasing American demand, with exports in this category rising by approximately 15% year-on-year.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment expressed optimism about the trade figures, noting that they align with the government’s export expansion initiatives. “These numbers reflect the growing diversification of our export base and the improved competitiveness of Nigerian products in international markets,” the minister stated.
Economic analysts suggest that recent improvements in Nigeria’s export processing zones and trade facilitation measures have contributed to this performance. The streamlining of export procedures and certification processes has reportedly reduced bottlenecks that previously hampered export growth.
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) highlighted that several small and medium-sized enterprises have successfully penetrated the US market through various export development programs and international trade exhibitions.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce has called for increased investment in value addition and manufacturing capacity to further boost the value of exports. “While the current figures are encouraging, Nigeria needs to move up the value chain to maximize returns from its exports to the United States,” the Chamber’s President emphasized.
Trade experts project that if the current trend continues, Nigerian exports to the United States could exceed $3.8 billion by year-end, potentially setting a five-year record in bilateral trade volume between both countries.
The US remains one of Nigeria’s top five trading partners globally, with bilateral trade extending beyond goods to include services and investments across various sectors of the economy.