US Criticises Nigeria’s Import Restrictions on 25 Items

TUESDAY April 8, 2025 |
By thenewsdesk.ng

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has criticised Nigeria’s continued import restrictions on 25 categories of goods, warning that the policy is hampering access for American exporters and causing revenue losses.

In a statement posted on its X handle on Monday, April 7, the agency said the ban, which includes items such as beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and alcoholic beverages, was a major obstacle for US businesses operating in Nigeria’s market.

“Nigeria’s import ban on 25 different product categories impacts U.S. exporters, particularly in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods,” the USTR stated.

“Restrictions on items like beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and spirits limit U.S. market access and reduce export opportunities. These policies create significant trade barriers that lead to lost revenue for U.S. businesses looking to expand in the Nigerian market.”

The remarks came just days after President Donald Trump imposed new tariffs on foreign goods entering the US, with Nigerian exports now facing a 14 per cent duty.

Nigeria’s ban was first introduced in 2016 to curb import dependency and encourage local production. Products covered by the restriction include sugar, cocoa products, spaghetti, beer, refined vegetable oil, and some medications.

In a further move to promote self-reliance, the Federal Government on March 26 announced its decision to halt solar panel imports to support domestic clean energy manufacturing.