The Federal Government has made an announcement on Monday
regarding the temporary suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes for the
importation of certain food items via land and sea borders.
The food Items consist of corn, unprocessed brown rice,
wheat, and black-eyed peas.
Abubakar Kyari, the esteemed Minister of Agriculture and
Food Security, made a significant announcement regarding the implementation of
a 150-Day Duty-Free Import Window for various food commodities. This initiative
aims to address specific challenges and ensure the availability of essential
food items in the country.
During a press conference held in Abuja, Kyari announced the
implementation of a 150-Day Duty-Free Import Window for specific food
commodities. This entails the temporary suspension of duties, tariffs, and
taxes associated with the importation of certain food items via land and sea
borders. The commodities covered under this initiative include maize, husked
brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas.
“Under this arrangement, imported food commodities will be
subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP).
“I am glad to reiterate that the Government’s position
exemplifies standards that would not compromise the safety of the various food
items for consumption.
“In addition to the importation by private sector, Federal
Government will import 250,000MT of wheat and 250,000MT of maize. The imported
food commodities in their semi processed state will target supplies to the
small-scale processors and millers across the country.”