The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced the suspension of duties, tariffs and taxes on importation of select food items.
The foods items that will enjoy duty-free importation through sea and land borders are, maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas.
The announcement was made during a press briefing by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Abubakar Kyari.
The minister, however, clarified that the food items will enjoy the duty-free importation for a 150-day window effective immediately.
He said, “150-Day Duty-Free Import Window for Food Commodities, suspension of duties, tariffs and taxes for the importation of certain food commodities (through land and sea borders). These commodities include maize, husked brown rice, wheat and cowpeas.
“Under this arrangement, imported food commodities will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP).
“I am glad to reiterate that the Government’s position exemplifies standards that would not compromise the safety of the various food items for consumption.
“In addition to the importation by private sector, Federal Government will import 250,000MT of wheat and 250,000MT of maize. The imported food commodities in their semi processed state will target supplies to the small-scale processors and millers across the country.”
The move by the government is aimed at dragging down the rising cost of food items which has led to an unprecedent social dislocation in most Nigerian families.
Aside from grains, the prices of vegetables and other staple food items have continued to skyrocket amid security challenges that threaten agricultural activities across the country.