Abuja: The Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) has approved a 300 dollar duty-free limit for imports, a new policy that takes effect on September 8. The Spokesperson of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Abdullahi Maiwada, announced this decision, which was reached at the board’s 63rd regular meeting, chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative, known as the ‘De Minimis’ threshold, aims to stimulate cross-border e-commerce, minimize clearance delays, and consolidate Nigeria’s position as a regional leader in trade facilitation. The move aligns with global practices to simplify clearance processes for low-value consignments and enhance trade facilitation.
The ‘De Minimis’ threshold is the value below which imported goods are exempted from customs duties and related taxes, as established by national legislation. Non-compliance with the directive could result in forfeiture, arrest, and other sanctions as stipulated in the NCS Act, 2023.
The board approved 300 U.S. dollars as Nigeria’s official De Minimis threshold after reviewing similar practices globally. This exemption applies to low-value imports, e-commerce consignments, and passenger baggage, restricted to four importations per year. It aligns with Section 5(c and d), Section 158 subsections (5 and 6), and other relevant provisions of the NCS Act, 2023, as well as international instruments like the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and the WCO Revised Kyoto Convention.
Under the new regulation, goods valued at 300 dollars or less are exempt from import duties and taxes, provided they are not prohibited or restricted items. Passenger merchandise in baggage not exceeding the same value is also exempted. The framework ensures immediate release and clearance of eligible consignments without post-release documentation.
Maiwada emphasized that the NCS mandates strict enforcement against stakeholders attempting to manipulate invoices or evade duty obligations. Multi-channel helpdesk platforms have been established to facilitate the smooth implementation of the ‘De Minimis’ regulation, serving as direct points of engagement for stakeholders.
He assured that the service remains committed to accountability, discipline, and integrity in fulfilling its statutory mandate. The NCS aims to strengthen public trust through impactful reforms, transparent processes, and strict enforcement of ethical standards.
During the session, the board also deliberated on disciplinary cases, responding to viral videos showing misconduct by officers. The board approved the demotion of two officers and reinstatement for two others whose cases were favorably reconsidered. Sanctioned officers must undergo a mandatory medical re-evaluation to determine their fitness to remain in service.
Maiwada stressed that abuse of banned substances and unethical behavior would not be tolerated, issuing a stern warning to all officers.