Guangzhou Wanglaoji Great Health Industry Co Ltd, a leading Chinese herbal tea producer, has signed a cooperative agreement with a Nigerian company to boost sales in Africa.

"The agreement will also help develop local people's drinking habit and promote the Chinese herbal tea culture," said Li Chuyuan, president of Guangzhou Baiyunshan Pharmaceutical Holdings Co Ltd, the parent company of Wanglaoji.

The sales agreement with Nigerian Popland Franchising Management Co Ltd followed the Chinese company's success in expanding sales in South Africa and Angola.

"Nigeria, as the largest economy with the largest population in Africa, is of great potential in selling Chinese herbal tea," said Li.

Expanding business in Africa is in line with Baiyunshan's long-term strategy of bringing Chinese pharmaceuticals and beverages to the world, especially countries and regions along the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Maritime Silk Road, according to Li.

Wanglaoji is currently sold in more than 50 countries and regions, with sales totaling more than 20 billion yuan ($3.12 billion) last year, according to the company.

Prince Okonkwo, general manager of Popland Franchising Management, said Chinese herbal tea would become popular in Africa.

"People in Nigeria are asking for more healthy beverages such as Chinese herbal tea," Okonkwo, said during the signing ceremony in Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong province.