Nigeria Revises Import Tariffs on 192 Product Categories

The Federal Government of Nigeria has implemented a significant overhaul of the country's import tariff regime, revising customs duties on 192 product categories as part of its strategy to align trade policy with regional agreements and safeguard local industries. This comprehensive review, detailed in the Customs, Excise Tariff, Etc. (Variation) Order 2026, was signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and took effect on May 1, 2026.

The analysis reveals that 103 product categories retained existing tariff rates, 74 saw reduced duties, and 12 experienced increased tariffs. The review indicates a predominance of tariff reductions, with 54% of tariff lines unchanged, 39% reduced, and only 6% increased.

The revised framework also incorporates new tariff measures under the ECOWAS Common External Tariff 2022-2027 and introduces an Import Adjustment Tax framework. Revised excise duties began on July 1, 2026, with additional rates set for implementation in 2027 and 2028.