Customs introduces duty-free policy for goods worth $300

In a move set to ease trade and support the growth of e-commerce, the Nigeria Customs Service Board (NCSB) has announced a new duty-free policy for low-value goods. Starting Monday, September 8, items valued at $300 (₦450,000) or less will no longer attract import duties or taxes.

The decision was reached during the board’s 63rd regular meeting, chaired by Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.

According to a statement issued by Abdullahi Maiwada, Public Relations Officer of the NCS, the policy introduces a de minimis threshold for goods brought into the country through express courier services or passenger baggage.

Maiwada noted that the initiative is designed to:

Simplify the clearance process for small imports

Promote seamless trade facilitation

Provide clarity for e-commerce operators and travellers

“By definition, it is essential to note that the De Minimis threshold is the value below which imported goods are exempted from payment of customs duties and related taxes established by the national legislation,” the statement reads.

“After a comprehensive review of similar practices across continents, the Board approved $300 as Nigeria’s official De Minimis threshold. This exemption will apply to low-value imports, e-commerce consignments, and passenger baggage.

“The threshold, which is restricted to four importations per annum, aligns with Section 3(c & d), subsections (5 & 6), and other relevant provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act. 2023, as well as international instruments, including the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement and the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Revised Kyoto Convention.

“Under the new regulation, goods valued at $300 or less will be exempted from import duties and taxes, provided they are not prohibited or restricted items.

“Similarly, passenger merchandise in baggage not exceeding the same value shall also be exempted.”

Maiwada noted that consignments meeting the requirement would enjoy immediate clearance without post-release documentation. However, he cautioned against abuse of the system.

“Noncompliance penalties include forfeiture, arrest, and other sanctions stipulated in the NCS Act, 2023,” he said.

To support implementation, the Customs spokesperson said the service will establish multi-channel helpdesks to assist stakeholders, provide compliance guidance, and resolve inquiries or complaints.

The NCS expects the initiative to reduce delays, encourage cross-border e-commerce, and strengthen Nigeria’s role as a leader in regional trade facilitation.