The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the implementation of a four per cent charge on the Free On-Board (FOB) value of imports, in line with the provisions of Section 18 (1) of the Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023.
The National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada made the announcement in a statement on Wednesday.
According to the NCS, the FOB charge, which is calculated based on the value of imported goods, including cost of goods and transportation expenses incurred up to the port of loading, is essential to driving the effective operation of the Service.
This comes into effect as the Customs Service Act 2023 replaced the long-standing Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA) and other related laws.
The NCS noted that this was a product of extensive consultations, constructive dialogue, and collaborative efforts with key industry players, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
The Service recognised the invaluable contributions of stakeholders in shaping and actualising the Nigeria NCSA 2023, adding that their insights, expertise, and unwavering commitment have been instrumental in ensuring a robust legal framework that enhances efficiency, promotes innovation and strengthens transparency in customs operations.
The NCS further acknowledged concerns raised by stakeholders over the sustained collection of one per cent Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) fee (a regulatory charge imposed for funding Nigeria’s Destination Inspection Scheme) alongside the 4% FOB charge.
“As a responsive and responsible government agency, the Service wishes to assure the general public that extensive consultation is ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Finance to address all agitations raised by our esteemed stakeholders.
“Under the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS reaffirms its commitment to transparency, fair trade practices, and efficient revenue management.
“All stakeholders are urged to
support this legally binding initiative, as the measures introduced in alignment with the NCSA 2023 reflects a balanced approach born out of extensive consultations with industry
players, importers, and regulatory bodies”, the statement added.
