US Slaps 12.5% Tariff on Nigerian Imports Over Forced Labour Allegations
The United States has imposed a 12.5 per cent tariff on imports from Nigeria under a new trade policy targeting countries accused of failing to stop the importation of goods produced through forced labour. The measure affects Nigeria and 59 other economies.
The new tariff was announced by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) after investigations conducted under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act of 1974. Washington said the affected countries had not effectively enforced bans on goods linked to forced labour.
The U.S. government said the policy is aimed at protecting its market from products connected to forced labour and ensuring fair trade practices. Certain goods, including oil, gas, fertilisers, food products and some critical minerals, are exempt from the new tariff.
The decision is expected to affect Nigerian exporters, particularly those shipping manufactured and agricultural products to the American market, as higher tariffs could make their goods more expensive and less competitive.
Nigeria is among several African countries named in the latest U.S. trade action, which forms part of a broader policy affecting imports from 60 economies around the world.
The latest move follows earlier warnings by U.S. trade authorities that countries failing to strengthen measures against forced labour in their supply chains could face additional trade penalties.
Trade experts say the development may put pressure on affected countries to tighten labour standards and improve enforcement of import regulations to avoid further restrictions.
The tariff is also expected to influence trade relations between Nigeria and the United States, with businesses likely to monitor its impact on exports and investment.
The U.S. has maintained that the action is intended to promote responsible trade and discourage the movement of goods produced under exploitative labour conditions.
Nigerian authorities are yet to issue a detailed official response to the new tariff as stakeholders continue to assess its likely impact on the country’s export sector.