The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has begun implementing a 4% charge on the Free On-Board (FOB) value of imports in compliance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023.
Spokesman of the service, Abdullahi Maiwada, announced the development in a statement issued Wednesday in Abuja.
“In line with the provisions of Section 18 (1) of NCSA 2023, the NCS is implementing a 4 per cent charge on the Free On-Board (FOB) value of imports,” he said.
Maiwada clarified that the FOB charge is calculated based on the value of imported goods, including their cost and transportation expenses up to the port of loading. He emphasized that the charge is crucial for the effective operation of the service.
Addressing concerns from stakeholders regarding the continued collection of the 1% Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) fee, he explained:
“It is a regulatory charge imposed for funding Nigeria’s Destination Inspection Scheme alongside the 4 per cent FOB charge.”
Maiwada assured the public that the NCS is engaging with the Federal Ministry of Finance to address concerns raised by stakeholders.
“As a responsive 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,” he said.
He urged stakeholders to comply with the directive, noting that it was introduced after extensive discussions with industry players, importers, and regulatory bodies.
“All stakeholders are urged to support this legally binding initiative,” he added.
Maiwada acknowledged the role of stakeholders in shaping the NCSA 2023, describing their contributions as invaluable.
“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.”
He reaffirmed the commitment of the NCS, under the leadership of Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, to transparency, fair trade practices, and efficient revenue management.
(NAN)
