In a bid to enhance export monitoring and trade facilitation, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has forged a collaboration with the Directorate General Taxation and Customs Union (DG TAXUD) of the European Union (EU). The announcement was made during a meeting at the NCS Corporate Headquarters on February 27, 2024, by Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
The collaboration aims at streamlining export documentation processes, with the NCS serving as the competent authority for rules of origin. Comptroller General Adeniyi assured that the NCS is committed to facilitating the export process, highlighting the importance of fostering peace through flourishing trade.
Acknowledging the initiative as a step towards economic union, the CG welcomed the Registered Exporters program. He called for a framework between Customs and DG TAXUD, emphasizing the need for a digital platform to enhance document validation for export commodities.
“As part of our outreach program, we are working with other Nigerian government agencies to maximize opportunities and reduce export processing time,” stated the CG. He highlighted the establishment of a ‘one-stop-shop’ export seat for documentation, aiming to expedite the release of goods from Nigerian ports.
The CG also announced plans to conduct a Time Release Study for exports, focusing on identifying bureaucratic obstacles causing delays. The goal is to create a faster and more efficient system for exporters.
Gary Wilkinson from DG TAXUD discussed the tariff discount of 4 percent for Nigerian products exported to the EU under the Generalized System of Preference (GSP) scheme. He emphasized periodic visits to developing countries to ensure the authenticity of exported products and highlighted the importance of cooperation between Customs departments in trade agreements.
The collaboration signifies a proactive effort to strengthen ties between Nigeria and the EU, promoting smoother trade processes and economic growth for both regions.
