Ariaria International Market


The Ariaria International Market is an open-air market located in Aba, a city in Abia State Southeast Nigeria. The market is one of the largest markets in West Africa and nicknamed "China of Africa" because of its versatility in the making of wears and leather works.

Historical and structural background

Ariaria International Market was established in 1976 following a fire outbreak that destroyed the old Ekeoha Market in Aba. The market was originally sited in a swampy area.
The market is known for its shoe making and leather works thus making it one of the largest leather shoe-making markets in West Africa with an estimated two million traders. The market cuts across three local government areas, the Aba North, Aba South and Osisioma.