U.S. Slams Nigeria’s Import Ban, Says Trade Policy Hurts American Exporters
By Ahmed I Abba
The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has criticised Nigeria’s import ban on 25 categories of goods, describing the policy as a barrier to trade and a limitation on market access for American exporters.
This followed the recent imposition of a 14 per cent tariff by the United States on goods entering the country, with Nigeria among those affected.
In a post on its official X handle on Monday, the USTR said the restrictions were having a negative impact on key sectors, particularly agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages and consumer goods.
“Nigeria’s import ban on 25 different product categories impacts U.S. exporters, particularly in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods.
“Restrictions on items like beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and spirits limit U.S. market access and reduce export opportunities.
“These policies create significant trade barriers that lead to lost revenue for U.S. businesses looking to expand in the Nigerian market,” the agency stated.
Nigeria implemented the ban in 2016 as part of efforts to manage foreign exchange demand and encourage local production.
Among the items affected are poultry, pork, refined vegetable oil, sugar, cocoa products, spaghetti, beer and certain categories of medicines.
In a related development, the Federal Government on March 26, 2025, announced plans to halt solar panel imports in a bid to stimulate local manufacturing in the clean energy sector.
