How to Start a Mini Importation Business in Nigeria (Step-by-Step Guide)
This article on how to import from China to Nigeria is for you if you fall withing this demographic: Youth, side hustlers, 9–5 workers, stay-at-home entrepreneurs, new graduates, students, Filling station pump attendants.
Mini importation has changed the game for hustlers in Nigeria.
With as little as ₦20,000, you can start importing profitable goods and reselling them for 2x–5x your cost. This isn’t just another “online hustle”—it’s a real business that works, especially in Nigeria’s high-demand market.
If you are serous, and wants to turn this into a business, you need more than 20K to mini-importation.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to start a mini importation business step-by-step, using reliable sources, and giving you a roadmap that works — even if you’re starting with zero experience.
What Is Mini Importation?
Mini importation means buying small quantities of goods from foreign countries (mostly China), shipping them to Nigeria, and selling them for profit.
Thankso e-commerce, you can now do this without traveling abroad or speaking Chinese. Sites like 1688.com, Alibaba, and Aliexpress make it possible to buy cheap, quality goods and sell them for profit here.
Why Mini Importation Works in Nigeria
According to a 2024 report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Nigeria imported over ₦16,590.51 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Most of these were from China. This shows the demand for foreign products is massive and you can tap into it.
The World Bank’s Nigeria Development Update (June 2023) also highlights that micro and informal businesses are the fastest-growing sector of employment. Mini importation is part of that boom.
The average mini-importer makes a 50%–300% markup on products, specially fashion items, gadgets, and household tools.
Having said the above, let me now show you how to tap into this huge opportunity.
Step-by-Step: How to Start a Mini Importation Business in Nigeria
If you’re just starting, use Aliexpress or work with 1688 agents who help Nigerians buy directly from Chinese suppliers.
Tips for safe buying:
Read seller reviews and product ratings.
Use escrow payment methods.
Always ask for a product video before confirming.
Step 3: Work With a Shipping Agent:
As a newcomer, test the waters by working with agents, this way, you will know what works and what doesn’t. You will have someone to share the risk with too.
To get your goods into Nigeria, you’ll need a reliable freight forwarder or shipping agent.
Types of shipping:
Air freight: Fast (5–10 days), more expensive
Sea freight: Cheap for bulk goods, but slow (30–45 days)
Popular agents in Nigeria:
Sino Freight (sino.com.ng)
2geda Logistics
Basit Global Shipping
Agents help you
Receive goods in China
Inspect goods
Ship to Lagos (or your city)
Tip: Declare your items clearly. Avoid banned goods like military gear, hard drugs, or controlled tech.
Step 4: Set Your Selling Price
Here’s a simple formula for pricing:
Total Cost = Product + Shipping + Clearing + Local Delivery
Selling Price = Total Cost + Profit Margin (usually 100%–200%)
For example:
Product: ₦3,000
Shipping + Clearing: ₦2,000
Delivery: ₦500
Total Cost: ₦5,500
Selling Price: ₦11,000–₦15,000
Step 5: Market & Sell Your Product
Top 3 platforms to start with:
Instagram & Facebook Marketplace—post quality pictures, use trending hashtags.
WhatsApp TV/Status—build a list, run promos, offer delivery
Jumia/Konga Store—use for long-term, official presence
Bonus: Partner with influencers or nano-influencers. Even someone with 2,000 active followers can boost your sales.
Mini importation is one of the smartest side businesses in Nigeria today. With the right product and consistent marketing, you can build it into a full-time income stream.
You don’t need a shop, a warehouse, or even a huge capital to begin.
All you need is knowledge, ₦20k–₦100k starting capital, and the drive to sell smart.
