Ag. National President and Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Importers Association of Nigeria, Gilbert Obi (second left), flanked by other leaders during the group’s National Executive Council meeting in Lagos
From John Silas, Lagos
The Importers Association of Nigeria (IMAN) has expressed reservations about the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) proposed 4 per cent Free-On-Board (FOB) levy, warning that if implemented, the policy will cripple industries, fuel inflation and worsen the cost of living in Nigerians.
Rising from its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Lagos on Wednesday, led by the Ag. National President and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Gilbert Obi, the association described the policy as a blunder that will impose unbearable costs on businesses and consumers.
The National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of IMAN, held at its Southwest Zonal Secretariat in Apapa, Lagos, brought together members of the Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee, zonal chairmen, and state administrators.
IMAN emphasised that the 4 per cent levy will severely impact Nigeria’s import-dependent economy, leading to an increase in the cost of essential goods such as gas, spare parts, machinery and raw materials.
Citing the example of a 2006 Toyota Corolla, which now costs between ₦6-9 million, alongside the drastic rise in freight forwarding operational costs, Obi dismissed Customs’ argument that the levy would fund its modernisation programme as narrow-minded and insensitive.
On another development, Obi called for reconciliation among IMAN members, urging the splinter groups to unite and strengthen the association. Commending the Southwest Zone for hosting the meeting, he urged members to play a stronger role in defending the interest of importers and the Nigerian economy by lifting the association with enabling ideas.
Meanwhile, Clarion Shipping West Africa has announced the launch of a new shipping line that will directly connect Nigeria with China and Saudi Arabia for import and export transactions.
Commending Nigerian importers for their pivotal role in sustaining economic activities across multiple sectors, the Vice President of Clarion Shipping, Eloka Ifeoma, assured that the organisation would offer competitive freight rates and flexible clearance options.
