🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigerian freight forwarders call for urgent tariff review and local content enforcement
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Concerned stakeholders in Nigeria’s freight forwarding and clearing sector are advocating for an urgent review of the current tariff structure and stricter enforcement of local content laws. During a media engagement in Lagos, they warned that persistent tariff hikes are stifling trade, discouraging indigenous participation, and worsening economic hardship. Kenneth Ofurum, a private practitioner, stated that the current tariff regime makes it difficult for freight forwarders and importers to operate, leading to business closures. He also noted a surge in unclaimed cargo due to importers' inability to meet financial demands. Ofurum raised concerns about the systematic sidelining of indigenous operators, alleging that foreign interests are increasingly taking over roles traditionally held by Nigerians. The stakeholders urged the government to enforce existing local content laws and develop new policies to protect local operators from unfair competition. They also called for inclusive policy formulation, ensuring critical stakeholders are involved in major reforms. Haruna Omolajumo, Managing Director of Harsecom Logistics Limited, highlighted the need for government policies guaranteeing local participation in maritime business, citing Ghana as an example where foreign companies partner with local operators. Omolajumo lamented the absence of such policies in Nigeria, which allows foreign firms to dominate the sector, and pointed out a sharp increase in port-related charges, maki
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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