Customs stops dangerous beef from Nigeria: try failed!

Customs stops dangerous beef from Nigeria: try failed!

Schweiz, Schweiz - In a sensational customs control, German officials recently stopped the import of six kilograms of unkated beef from Switzerland. The meat, which was half -dried, came from Nigeria and was transported in a vehicle by two men. These tried to prove to the customs authority that the meat was edible by wanting to eat. However, the attempt was immediately prevented by the tax collectors, and the men had to continue their trip without the beef. The responsible customs authority imposed the professional disposal of the meat, since the import of animal goods from non-EU countries is subject to strict provisions in order to minimize the risk of animal diseases. According to Krone, compliance with these regulations is crucial to protect the health of animals and humans.

The incident indicates the complexity of the goods trade between Germany and Nigeria. The regular changes in the customs regulations in Nigeria make the import of goods more difficult. In April 2023, a new customs law came into force, which is known as "Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023". This law aims to create a central and more efficient customs processing. The publication "Customs and import compact", updated by Germany Trade & Invest, summarizes the conditions for the goods import.

customs regulations and requirements

The updated information contains important points on the processes of customs clearance, possible customs procedures as well as goods accompanying documents and import levies. Other relevant details are available via bans and restrictions that must be observed when trading Nigeria. Traders and importers who want to introduce goods from Nigeria must also be clear about the certification obligations. A certificate according to Soncap or NAFDAC is required for all products that are exported to Nigeria. A revision of the Soncap program since May 1, 2022 has reduced the number of accredited test companies to four, which further influences the process. Fees for these certifications were also increased; A SonCAP certificate now costs $ 350, which previously fraud

These requirements are particularly important to ensure that the products correspond to the Nigerian norms. It should be noted that certain goods, such as food and medicine, are excluded from the certification obligation. Nevertheless, the import of goods according to Nigeria remains a challenge for companies due to the strict guidelines and additional taxes, such as import registration (form M).

fiscal policy measures and strategies

The Politics of the Nigerian government have also been pursuing fiscal political measures since May 2023 to promote economic growth and to counteract climate change. As part of these measures, the import taxes should also be revised. For imports from non-Ecowas countries, an additional delivery of 0.5 % of the customs value is charged. The common outdoor customs for Ecowas countries determines various sentences: 0 % for industrial machines, 5 % for raw materials and up to 35 % for luxury goods.

The complexity of trade with Nigeria is also evident in the foreign exchange restrictions that also burden the import business. Importers are often forced to use parallel markets to secure foreign exchange for their payments. Cash transactions on Nigerian Forex accounts are not allowed, which further complicates the efficient import.

In order to meet the requirements, it is advisable to contact competent service providers such as freight forwarders and tax advisors who have experience in international trade. The IHK and other chambers of commerce offer support and information that is essential for successful business relationships with Nigeria, as shown on IHK. Import traffic remains a challenge that requires great care and planning in order to meet the strict requirements and provisions.