Freight forwarders seek urgent tariffs review

The Nigerian freight forwarding and clearing sector is sounding the alarm over the current tariff regime, which stakeholders describe as a significant impediment to trade and a driver of economic hardship. The persistent hike in tariffs, coupled with a lack of enforcement of local content laws, is creating an environment where indigenous businesses struggle to survive, while foreign interests appear to be gaining ground.

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the persistent hike in tariffs is stifling trade, “discouraging indigenous participation, and worsening economic hardship across the country”.

This situation is not merely an economic inconvenience; it directly impacts the livelihoods of thousands of Nigerians who rely on the logistics and clearing value chain for employment. The warning that businesses are shutting down and that the surge in unclaimed cargo at the ports is a direct consequence of these policies underscores the severity of the crisis. The stakeholders are not just complaining; they are demanding action – a review of tariffs, stricter adherence to local content laws, and a more inclusive policy formulation process.

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the current tariff regime has made it increasingly difficult for freight forwarders and importers to operate, noting that many businesses are shutting down due to rising costs.

From our perspective here in Nigeria, this is a critical issue of economic sovereignty and fairness. While international trade is essential, it must not come at the expense of our own businesses and workers. The call for government policies to be implemented 'with a human face' reflects a deep concern that current revenue generation strategies are disproportionately burdening operators and consumers alike. The Nigerian media, like The PUNCH, has a duty to amplify these voices and ensure that the government addresses these pressing concerns before the situation deteriorates further.

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government policies must be implemented with a human face, adding that the current “approach to revenue generation is placing undue pressure on operators and ultimately being passed on to consumers through higher prices of goods and services”.