The Influence of Chinese Business Practices on Nigerian Entrepreneurial Culture in Onitsha

Onitsha in Anambra State is a city characterised by vibrant entrepreneurial culture, and the sustained presence of Chinese merchants and business models has introduced new commercial practices that are gradually influencing local entrepreneurial behaviours. This study examines how Chinese business practices, including long working hours, bulk purchasing, relationship-based commerce known as guanxi, and lean cost structures, are influencing the entrepreneurial culture of Onitsha traders. A qualitative research design was adopted, with 25 in-depth interviews conducted with Nigerian entrepreneurs who regularly interact with Chinese business counterparts, supplemented by eight focus groups with market traders in Onitsha's major commercial zones. Findings indicate that Nigerian entrepreneurs in Onitsha have adapted several Chinese commercial practices, including early-morning trading hours, bulk stocking strategies, and supplier relationship cultivation. The concept of guanxi resonates strongly with preexisting Igbo commercial networks such as the Isusu savings system, enabling easy conceptual adoption. However, longer working hour norms and lower profit margin tolerance have generated intergenerational friction, with younger entrepreneurs more willing to adopt Chinese-inspired lean practices. The study concludes that Chinese commercial influence on Onitsha's entrepreneurial culture is real and growing, operating through daily commercial interaction rather than formal education. Structured Sino-Nigerian business exchange programmes are recommended to channel this influence productively in the South East zone.

Keywords: Chinese business practices, Nigerian entrepreneurship, Onitsha, guanxi, Anambra State