The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) said it has commenced consultation with the Ministry of Finance to seek guidance on alternative measures following the suspension of the 4 percent Free -On- Board ( FOB) levy to ensure continuity of service delivery to its stakeholders.
Recall that the Finance Ministry had on Monday, 15th September directed the NCS to suspend the implementation of the controversial 4 percent FOB on imported goods after widespread concerns from stakeholders about the levy’s potential negative impact on the economy.
In a statement issued by Customs Spokesman, Abdulahi Maiwada on Tuesday, the NCS expressed appreciation to the Ministry’s engagement on the matter and commitment to supporting government fiscal policipolicie
“The Nigeria Customs Service acknowledges receipt of the directive from the Federal Ministry of Finance to suspend the implementation of the 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) charged on imported goods.
“The Service appreciates the Ministry’s engagement on this matter and remains committed to supporting government fiscal policies.
“The NCS remains optimistic about ongoing discussions with the Federal Ministry of Finance and other relevant stakeholders to address the concerns raised while ensuring that the Service’s statutory obligations are met effectively.
“We look forward to constructive engagement that will ultimately serve the best interests of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, enhance revenue generation, and support the nation’s economic growth objectives through efficient customs administration.
The NCS also clarified media reports suggesting that the Service introduced the 4% FOB only recently.
“For clarity, the Service wishes to emphasise that the National Assembly established the 4% FOB provision through Section 18(1)(a) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, which stipulates “not less than 4% of the free-on-board value of imports according to international best practices” as a statutory funding mechanism for the Service’s operations.
“The Service assures all stakeholders, including the trading public, licensed customs agents, and international partners, that our operations will continue without any disruption.
“We remain firmly committed to delivering efficient service, upholding international best practices and supporting Nigeria’s economic growth through effective revenue collection and enhanced trade facilitation, ” the statement said.