The Chinese government announced this week that it’s economy grew to a volume of RMB130 trillion or USD19 trillion in 2024.

This was made known by the spokesperson of the country’s Foreign Ministry in a its regular briefing. 

The spokesperson, Ms. Mao Ning said, “In 2024, China’s economy successfully realized the growth target with its economic output breaking the RMB130 trillion mark for the first time and economic growth equivalent to the annual GDP of a medium-sized country. This speaks to the resilience and potential of China’s economy and the confidence that China’s economy has brought to the world. China will stay committed to high-quality development and high-standard opening up, maintain the continued upward trajectory of the Chinese economy, and bring more ‘positive surprises’ to the global economy.”

In the same briefing, the country welcomed the inclusion of Nigeria as partner in the BRICS economic group.

In response to a question by the media on the invitation extended to Nigeria by Brazil, the current headquarters country of BRICS as a partner country, Mao noted, “China welcomes and congratulates Nigeria on becoming a BRICS partner country. Nigeria is a major developing country and an important force in the Global South. Its active participation in BRICS cooperation is conducive to its own development, and more importantly, is in the interest of BRICS countries and the Global South. We believe Nigeria will contribute to the development of BRICS mechanism.”

“New partner country joining the BRICS family demonstrates that the BRICS mechanism has greater representation, and BRICS sees its appeal and influence grow more salient. China stands ready to work with other BRICS members and partner countries to uphold the spirit of openness, inclusiveness, and win-win cooperation, expand practical cooperation in various fields, advance the high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation, and make greater contributions to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind,” Mao Ning said.

Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry last weekend made known the invitation to BRICS as partner country, a development watchers in Nigeria demanded a definition if it’s a full membership invitation.

About the author:

Ikenna Emewu, Editor-in-chief, Africa China Economy Magazine, Nigeria. This article was culled from Africa China Economy Magazine, Jan. 23, 2025.