Nigeria’s Export Reliance Amid Global Trade Growth

Global trade is expanding rapidly, with goods trade growing faster in the first half of 2026 than in any half-year in the past 15 years, excluding the post-pandemic rebound. This growth is attributed to increased demand despite challenges like higher tariffs and shipping disruptions.

Sub-Saharan Africa's trade value rose by 11 percent in the first five months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, according to the DHL Globalisation Tracker, which was developed in partnership with New York University’s Stern School of Business.

Despite the global trade boom, Nigeria's export earnings remain heavily reliant on petroleum, with no significant diversification observed. This highlights the ongoing challenge of transforming expanding trade into a more balanced economic structure.