The unified operator for export support and development, QazTrade, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the King of Nigeria, opening a new chapter in trade relations between Kazakhstan and Africa’s largest economy. Under the agreement, pilot shipments of Kazakh cable and wire products to Nigeria are expected as early as 2025. The minimum market size for these products in the country is estimated at over $125 million annually — and continues to grow amid major infrastructure and energy projects.
The choice of cable products as the initial focus is no coincidence — Kazakhstan has manufacturers whose output meets international standards. One of the key participants in the project will be Aknur-Cable, a company included in the 2025 Export Acceleration Program.
The prospects extend far beyond the cable industry. Within the framework of the memorandum, the parties are also discussing exports of Kazakh wheat, mining equipment, transport machinery, and electrical devices. QazTrade views Nigeria as a strategic “gateway” to the African market and is committed to promoting non-commodity exports.
“Since the beginning of the year, negotiations with the Nigerian side have been active and constructive. We are seeing strong interest in Kazakh products and are confident that cables will be just the first step. Discussions are currently underway on volumes and logistics for several product categories,” noted Ainur Amirbekova, Managing Director of QazTrade.
Emphasizing the strategic importance of the partnership, the King of Ife — His Majesty Ogunwusi Adeyeye Enitan — pointed out that, despite similarities in the economic structure, the scale of Nigeria’s market (over 200 million people) presents unique export opportunities for Kazakh producers. According to him, the cooperation will be mutually beneficial: Kazakhstan gains access to a vast market, while Nigeria receives high-quality products and reliable partners.