Nigeria Restricts Imports of Cement and Fertilizer

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a restriction on the importation of cement, fertilizer, and 15 other goods, thereby expanding its import prohibition list to a total of 17 categories. This decision was disclosed in a circular issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance, signed by Minister Wale Edun, following presidential approval as part of the 2026 fiscal policy measures.

The restrictions will take effect on April 1, 2026, and are intended to align with the ECOWAS Common External Tariff framework. The list includes various products such as live and dead birds, meat products, certain oils, and pharmaceuticals, among others.

Additionally, an import adjustment tax will be introduced on 192 tariff lines, with a gradual reduction planned until 2036. The government aims to protect domestic industries and reduce import reliance, despite the World Bank urging Nigeria to eliminate import bans to enhance market competitiveness.