The Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board (LITFCMB) has initiated a process to address the grievances of Nigerian traders against Chinese business operators. The dispute arose from allegations that Chinese retailers were selling goods at lower prices than Nigerian traders, making it difficult for them to compete. The Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the board, Veronica Ndanusa, stated that some traders complained of incurring additional costs importing goods from China, while Chinese operators sold similar products locally at lower prices.
According to Ndanusa, some Nigerian traders claimed that products they sold for about N20,000 were being sold by Chinese operators for N10,000. She, however, condemned the manner in which the grievances were expressed, particularly the use of placards calling for Chinese nationals to leave the market. Ndanusa emphasized that the board had begun a process of dialogue to address the concerns of both Nigerian traders and foreign investors.
The stakeholders’ meeting held by the board achieved more than 60 per cent of what was required to find a permanent solution to the dispute. Ndanusa stressed that both Nigerian and foreign traders must operate within the law, particularly on fair trade and competition. She stated that the next step would be a roundtable discussion, followed by a commitment from both sides to adhere to whatever agreement was reached.
Ndanusa linked the resolution of the dispute to the broader interests of the Federal Government, citing the complex’s status as an international trading centre. She emphasized that events at the complex could affect Nigeria’s trading image and that the board was committed to preventing a recurrence of the incident. The complex’s reputation as a hub for international trade makes it essential to resolve the dispute amicably.
Chief Eric Ilechukwu, President of the Association of Progressive Traders and Chairman of Stakeholders, Trade Fair Complex, stated that the dispute arose from concerns over Chinese operators allegedly combining manufacturing, supply, and retail activities. He believed that such practices could make it difficult for Nigerian retailers to compete but added that the issue should have been handled through dialogue.
Li Guilin, CEO and Managing Director of Evaxin International Company Limited, representing the Chinese business community, stated that she had operated an auto spare parts business at the Trade Fair Complex for 17 years. She claimed that Chinese businesses had grown alongside Nigerian traders at the complex and that her company operated mainly as a dealer and supplier of auto spare parts, not engaging in retail sales.
The Lagos State Police Command and the Department of State Services have warned traders against resorting to protests or actions that could disrupt peace at the complex. They urged traders to report emerging disputes before they escalate and advised that disagreements should be resolved through established channels. The DSS assured stakeholders that they were monitoring the situation and would provide advice and intervention where necessary.
Key points
- The Lagos International Trade Fair Complex Management Board has begun a dialogue process to address the concerns of both Nigerian traders and foreign investors.
- The dispute arose from allegations that Chinese retailers were selling goods at lower prices than Nigerian traders, making it difficult for them to compete.
- The resolution of the dispute is linked to the broader interests of the Federal Government, citing the complex’s status as an international trading centre.
