TRADE (GENERALISED SYSTEM OF PREFERENCES) ACT

An Act gives domestic effect to Nigeria's rights under the Generalised System of Preferences schemes, allowing Nigerian exporters to access reduced import duties in developed markets. It targets Nigerian exporters and relevant government bodies like the Ministry of Trade. This improves Nigeria's export competitiveness in international trade.

What Is This Policy?

An Act giving domestic effect to Nigeria's rights under the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) schemes offered by developed countries, enabling Nigerian exporters to access reduced import duties in beneficiary markets.

Who Does It Target?

Nigerian exporters accessing GSP markets (EU, US, Japan, etc.) Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) Nigeria Customs Service certifying GSP exports

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Enable Nigerian exporters to benefit from reduced duties on their goods in developed country markets under GSP schemes, improving Nigeria's export competitiveness.

Key Features

GSP Framework: Provides the domestic legal basis for Nigeria's participation in international GSP schemes. Certificate of Origin: Nigerian exporters must obtain certificates of origin to access GSP preferences. NEPC Role: NEPC assists exporters in understanding and accessing GSP benefits. Eligible Products: Most Nigerian manufactured and agricultural products qualify for GSP preferences in donor markets.

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: Nigerian export sector Beneficiaries: Nigerian exporters; non-oil export growth Funding: Not applicable

How to Access

Obtain a Certificate of Origin from NCS or a Chamber of Commerce Verify that your products qualify for GSP under the specific market's rules of origin Present the Certificate of Origin to customs in the importing country Application method: Certificate of Origin: apply through NCS or your local Chamber of Commerce.

Important Terms

GSP benefits may be withdrawn if Nigeria exceeds income thresholds or violates preference conditions Rules of origin must be satisfied — products must be substantially made in Nigeria The US AGOA scheme provides enhanced GSP for Nigerian goods in addition to standard GSP

Official Resources

Website: https://www.nepc.gov.ng Contact: Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) / Nigeria Customs Service

Legal Framework

Enacted under Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution. Gives domestic effect to Nigeria's GSP (Generalised System of Preferences) beneficiary status under the UNCTAD guidelines, operating alongside the Customs and Excise Management Act Cap C45 LFN 2004, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council Act, and the WTO Agreement on Trade in Goods.