The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a two-year exemption from import duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) for critical raw materials essential for pharmaceutical production.
This relief, granted under a presidential executive order, was disclosed on Wednesday in a statement by the NCS National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller Abdullahi Maiwada.
According to the statement, the exemption covers active pharmaceutical ingredients, excipients, long-lasting insecticidal nets, rapid diagnostic kits, reagents, and packaging materials used in medicine production. The measure aims to boost local drug manufacturing, reduce healthcare costs, and encourage investment in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry.
“This directive aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to enhancing local manufacturing of healthcare products and stimulating investment in the health sector,” the statement read.
However, the exemption is restricted to pharmaceutical manufacturers recognized by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. Eligible companies must also possess a valid Tax Identification Number (TIN) to benefit from the policy.
To ensure transparency, the NCS will compile quarterly reports detailing all importations under this scheme, including importer identities, quantities, and values of imported items.
The Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating trade while ensuring strict monitoring of the policy’s implementation. It also urged stakeholders—including importers, manufacturers, and government agencies—to collaborate in strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.
