The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has strongly criticized Nigeria’s continued ban on the importation of 25 categories of goods, warning that the policy significantly restricts access to American exports and hampers bilateral trade.
The statement from the USTR came on the heels of new U.S. tariffs—introduced by President Donald Trump—which now impose a 14% duty on goods entering the U.S. from Nigeria.
According to the USTR, Nigeria’s import restrictions particularly affect sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods, thereby limiting the ability of U.S. companies to compete in the Nigerian market.
“Restrictions on items like beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and spirits limit U.S. market access and reduce export opportunities,” the USTR posted via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
The agency further added that such policies create trade barriers and lead to revenue losses for American businesses aiming to expand their footprint in Africa’s largest economy.
Nigeria first implemented the ban in 2016, as part of efforts to curb excessive imports and encourage domestic manufacturing. The affected items include:
- Poultry and pork
- Refined vegetable oil
- Sugar and cocoa products
- Beer and certain pharmaceutical products
- Spaghetti and fruit juices
In addition, on March 26, 2025, the Nigerian government announced plans to halt solar panel imports to spur local clean energy production.
The latest criticism adds to growing international concerns over Nigeria’s restrictive trade policies, especially at a time when global supply chains are being redefined by protectionist measures and shifting geopolitical alliances.
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