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Import and Export to Nigeria
Despite the challenges, the future of import and export to Nigeria looks bright, especially in the tech sector. As one of the fastest-growing ICT markets in Africa, Nigeria presents significant opportunities for businesses involved in technology, infrastructure, and innovation. With the right support, businesses can capitalize on these opportunities and expand their reach in one of Africa’s most dynamic economies.
Tax
Up to 10%
Duties
Up to 20%
Lead Times
4-6 Weeks
Restricted Items
Second-hand Goods
Best Carrier Option
Courier or Freight Forwarder
Non-Working Days
Saturday, Sunday, and Public Holidays
Prominent Languages
Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and English
The Import and Export Landscape of Nigeria
Nigeria is a hub of commerce in Africa, with its economy primarily driven by oil, agriculture, and increasingly, technology. The Nigerian import and export sector is multifaceted, governed by various national agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON), and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). These agencies enforce strict regulations to ensure that all imported goods meet the country’s standards, protecting public health and encouraging fair trade practices.
However, navigating this system can be challenging. Despite efforts to streamline customs operations, the NCS continues to face issues related to corruption, inefficiency, and delays in clearance. These issues often result in long wait times for importers and exporters and increase the costs associated with trade.
Population
235.85 M
Biggest Industry by Export
Crude Petroleum
Capital City
Abuja
Biggest Industry by Import
Refined Petroleum
The Role of Importer of Record (IOR) and Exporter of Record (EOR) Services in Nigeria
Given the intricacies of Nigeria’s import/export regulations, it’s crucial to have an experienced partner to ensure smooth customs clearance and compliance. That’s where Importer of Record (IOR) and Exporter of Record (EOR) services come into play.
In Nigeria, businesses must often engage in the IOR/EOR process to ensure they’re compliant with local regulations. An IOR is responsible for managing the import process, ensuring that all duties, taxes, and regulations are met before the goods clear customs. Similarly, an EOR oversees the export process, ensuring that the proper documentation is submitted and that the product is compliant with the destination country’s regulations.
For global businesses, navigating Nigeria’s import regulations can be overwhelming without local expertise. That’s why our IOR/EOR services in Nigeria are vital. At TecEx, we specialize in handling every aspect of the IOR/EOR process, from document procurement to facilitating inspections and managing the payment of taxes and duties.
Import and Export Pain Points in Nigeria’s Trade Landscape
Beyond the regulatory complexities, businesses face several other challenges when importing and exporting to Nigeria. Some of the most common pain points include:
Corruption and Inefficiency
Despite ongoing reforms, Nigeria’s customs operations still grapple with inefficiencies and potential corruption, which can delay clearance times and inflate costs. Navigating this environment requires an experienced partner who understands how to mitigate risks and manage the complexities of local procedures.
Documentation and Compliance
As mentioned, Nigeria’s import/export regulations are very specific, especially when it comes to product labeling and certification. Whether you’re importing tech equipment, pharmaceuticals, or food products, it’s essential that your products meet the required standards set by agencies like SON and NAFDAC. Failure to comply can result in goods being detained, delayed, or rejected at the border.
Second-hand Goods
Importing used or refurbished goods into Nigeria is allowed, but it requires additional documentation and approvals. These items must meet stringent standards, and businesses must ensure that all paperwork is in order to avoid delays.
Security Concerns and Counterfeit Goods
Security issues and the presence of counterfeit goods are additional factors that complicate the trade landscape in Nigeria. These issues not only pose risks to your supply chain but also make it harder to ensure product authenticity, particularly in tech imports.
Top Import/Export Trade Partners of Nigeria
Europe
The Netherlands
Europe
Belgium
Compliance Challenges for Importing and Exporting to Nigeria
One of the biggest hurdles to importing and exporting to Nigeria is the country’s complex customs procedures. For starters, Nigeria operates under a destination inspection policy, meaning all imports are subject to inspection once they arrive in the country. While this policy aims to increase the accuracy of customs assessments, it also significantly slows down clearance times, especially compared to other countries with pre-shipment inspection systems.
When it comes to documentation, Nigerian customs requirements can be stringent. To receive clearance for goods, importers must submit a variety of documents, including the bill of lading, commercial invoice, packing list, and a duly completed Form ‘M’ entry declaration. Moreover, products entering Nigeria must comply with a set of labeling regulations, detailing product information such as the name of the product, country of origin, date of manufacture, and specifications (e.g., BS, DIN, ISO/IEC, NIS).
As part of Nigeria’s efforts to facilitate trade and boost revenue collection, the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) system was introduced. This online system allows importers to submit their documents for assessment and clearance before the goods even arrive in the country, thereby streamlining the process to some extent.
However, businesses also need to be aware of several other customs-related hurdles. For instance, the government has the power to impose special duties on goods perceived to be unfairly subsidized or dumped, a policy aimed at protecting local industries.
Import and Export to Nigeria with TecEx
At TecEx, we specialize in providing comprehensive IOR/EOR services in Nigeria, helping businesses from across the world navigate the complexities of Nigerian trade compliance. We understand the local regulations, customs practices, and the nuances that can affect clearance times and overall costs.
Our Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) service means we handle everything on your behalf. From managing inspections to coordinating with customs authorities and procuring the necessary documentation, we ensure that your goods arrive in Nigeria on time and in compliance with all regulations. Our extensive network and expertise also allow us to manage even the most complex shipments, including second-hand goods, high-tech equipment, and other specialized imports.
Moreover, our partnership with the NCS and our participation in international standardization initiatives ensure that we stay ahead of any regulatory changes. With TecEx handling your IOR/EOR needs, you can focus on expanding your business without worrying about the intricacies of customs clearance and compliance.
Gain Access to the Nigerian Trade Market
We’re here to simplify the process with our comprehensive IOR/EOR services in Nigeria, ensuring that your goods clear customs efficiently, meet all regulatory standards, and arrive on time.