In a move aimed at achieving significant transformation of the Nigerian sugar sector, the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) has begun talks with the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) on ways to foster partnership deal with the Chinese government.
Joseph Tegbe, the director general of NCSP who hosted a delegation of the NSDC led by the Executive Secretary, Kamar Bakrin noted the huge potentials of the Nigerian Sugar sector adding that the goal of the collaboration is to leverage Chinese technology and expertise to boost Nigeria’s sugar production, meeting both local demand and the requirements of target global market.
According to Tegbe, China remains a significant player in the global sugar market, currently importing an estimated 5 million metric tonnes of sugar annually, valued at $10 billion in addition to its domestic production of 10.5 million metric tonnes.
“The local sugar market, valued at $2 billion annually, is projected to benefit from a transformed sugar sector. In addition, the country could potentially acquire a substantial share of the global market, where sugar imports by China is currently valued at $10billion.
“The working visit focused on fostering collaboration between the two organizations and exploring opportunities for partnerships to transform the Nigerian Sugar sector through Nigeria-China Collaboration.
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“The NSDC aims to position the Nigerian sugar sector as a beneficiary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Nigeria and China,” he said.
Tegbe explained that the partnership will involve the deployment of modern technology, conversion of by-products, training of farmers on modern skills, and technology transfer, as well as access to low-interest financing to fund the development of new sugar production estates and ventures.
“As Nigeria seeks to boost its sugar production, this collaboration is expected to play a crucial role in achieving this goal, which is part of the second phase of the Nigeria Sugar Master Plan (NSMP).
“This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes economic growth and development. The NCSP is committed to deepening the partnership between Nigeria and China, and this collaboration with the NSDC marks a significant step in this direction,” he said.
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