The United Kingdom has expanded duty-free and reduced-tariff access for Nigeria, making nearly 3,000 products eligible under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), to improve agricultural export competitiveness.
The announcement has positioned Nigeria to leverage its strong agricultural base at a crucial time when diplomatic tensions with the United States are intensifying over reciprocal trade restrictions.
Speaking during the UK DCTS roadshow in Kano, Ms Mujina Kaindama, UK head of trade policy for Nigeria, said the scheme simplifies export processes and strengthens Nigeria’s participation in global value chains.
She noted that the DCTS, launched in 2023, has been designed to reduce red tape, simplify rules of origin, and provide hands-on support to exporters through market guidance, technical assistance, and quality standards training.
“We are working directly with exporters to help them meet UK standards and unlock new value chains, particularly in agriculture, textiles, and light manufacturing,” she said.
Dr Adiya Ode of Propcon+ highlighted that Northern Nigeria grows crops in high international demand, such as sesame, ginger, hibiscus, groundnuts, and soybeans.
She said the tariff relief presents a “golden opportunity” for farmers and agribusinesses to scale processing capacity, attract new investment, and secure better value in international markets.
“It’s not just about exports; it’s about transforming rural livelihoods,” she added.
While the UK is deepening trade cooperation with Nigeria, relations between Abuja and Washington have strained following restrictions on Nigerian goods entering the US market.
In response, the Nigerian Government has imposed a reciprocal ban on selected American imports, including processed foods, used vehicles, and agricultural products, signifying a shift towards assertive, interest-driven trade diplomacy.
Mrs Orji Gertrude, director of investment promotion at the Federal Ministry of Trade and Investment, confirmed that Nigerian authorities have been working with UK officials to ensure exporters fully utilise the DCTS opportunity.
According to a report, the event, organised by Propcon+, the Kano State Government, and the ministry, marks a new era in Nigeria-UK relations, driven by economic.
Source: Legit News
Image Credit: Fibre2Fashion
