The Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) has approved a $300 de minimis threshold for low-value imports, exempting eligible consignments from customs duties and taxes starting Monday, September 8, 2025.
The decision, aimed at streamlining trade processes and
boosting e-commerce, was announced on Sunday, September 7, following the
board's 63rd regular meeting on September 2, chaired by the Minister of Finance
and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.
Under
the new regulation, imports valued at $300 or less – including e-commerce
parcels and items in passenger baggage – will be cleared without duty payments,
provided they are not prohibited or restricted goods.
This
threshold applies to a maximum of four importations per person or entity per
year, in line with Sections 5(c and d), 158(5 and 6) of the Nigeria Customs
Service Act, 2023, as well as international standards from the World Trade
Organisation (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement and the World Customs
Organisation (WCO) Revised Kyoto Convention.
The
approval comes after a comprehensive review of global practices, positioning
Nigeria to simplify clearance for small-scale shipments while enhancing
compliance.
"This
initiative aligns with best international standards to facilitate trade, reduce
delays, and support the growth of cross-border e-commerce," the NCS stated
in a release signed by National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller
of Customs (ACC) Abdullahi Maiwada.
To
ensure smooth implementation, the NCS will introduce multi-channel helpdesks
for stakeholders, offering guidance on compliance, resolving queries, and
handling complaints.
Eligible
low-value goods will receive immediate release without post-clearance audits,
but strict penalties – including forfeiture, arrest, and fines under the NCS
Act, 2023 – await those attempting invoice manipulation or duty evasion.
E-commerce
operators and travelers have welcomed the move, viewing it as a relief amid
rising import costs.
Jumoke
Adebayo, CEO of a Lagos-based online retail firm, said, "This will make importing small gadgets and apparel much easier
and cheaper for us. We've been pushing for this to compete better
regionally."
Similarly,
frequent traveler Ibrahim Yusuf noted, "Bringing
back gifts or personal items under $300 without hassle is a big win for
families and small businesses."
The
policy is expected to minimize clearance bottlenecks at ports and airports,
potentially increasing Nigeria's appeal as a trade hub in West Africa.
In
related board actions, two officers were demoted to the next lower rank, while
two others were reinstated following favorable reviews.
The de minimis threshold marks a progressive step in Nigeria's trade facilitation efforts, building on recent reforms like the 4% Free-On-Board charge enforcement earlier this year.
0 Comments