FG Bans Poultry, Livestock-Related Imports, Introduces 2% Green Tax

The Federal Government has revised its import policy, banning the importation of several goods from countries outside the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS.

The policy is contained in a circular issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance and signed by the Minister, Wale Edun. It forms part of the 2026 Fiscal Policy Measures aimed at strengthening local production and reducing dependence on imports.

The banned items include poultry, pork, beef, cement, pharmaceuticals, fertilisers, vegetable oil, sugar, and tomatoes, among others.

The government said the new policy replaces the 2023 fiscal framework and will be published in the official gazette.

Importers who had existing agreements before April 1, 2026, have been given a 90-day grace period to clear their goods under previous duty rates. All new import transactions from that date will follow the revised rules.

The government also introduced a 2 percent green tax on imported vehicles with engine capacities of 2000cc and above, as part of efforts to support environmental goals and increase revenue.

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria said the policy could boost local production and reduce pressure on foreign exchange.

However, the National Association of Nigerian Traders warned that the move may lead to short-term price increases, especially for cement, medicines, and food items.

A Lagos-based importer said supply gaps and rising costs may occur at the early stage, while an economic analyst noted that stronger local production capacity will be needed for the policy to succeed.