Customs, NCS
Nigeria Customs Grants 2-Year Import Duty Waiver for Pharmaceutical Raw Materials
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a two-year exemption from import duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) on critical raw materials needed for pharmaceutical production.
The policy, approved by President Bola Tinubu through an executive order, aims to boost local drug manufacturing and reduce healthcare costs.
In a statement on Wednesday by NCS National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, the agency disclosed that the waiver covers active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipients, and other essential materials for producing medicines, insecticidal nets, diagnostic kits, reagents, and packaging supplies.
The directive aligns with the federal government’s push to strengthen domestic pharmaceutical production and attract investment in the healthcare sector.
According to the guidelines, only manufacturers registered with the Federal Ministry of Health and possessing a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN) will qualify for the exemption—ensuring the incentives benefit legitimate producers.
To maintain transparency, the NCS will publish quarterly reports tracking imports under the scheme, including details on importers, quantities, and values of materials brought into the country. The agency emphasized its commitment to facilitating trade while safeguarding national interests through stricter monitoring.
“This policy reflects our dedication to supporting government initiatives that enhance healthcare accessibility,” Maiwada stated.
“We urge stakeholders—importers, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies—to collaborate in ensuring its success for a healthier Nigeria.”
The NCS reaffirmed its role in balancing trade facilitation with border security, noting that the waiver is part of broader efforts to stimulate economic growth and reduce reliance on imported medical products.
