In a move aimed at boosting food security and ensuring affordable prices for consumers, the Federal Government has announced the suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes for the importation of certain food items through land and sea borders.
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, made this announcement during a press conference held in Abuja. He revealed that a 150-day Duty-Free Import Window has been established for food commodities, including maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas.
Under this new arrangement, imported food commodities will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) to maintain fair pricing for consumers. Minister Kyari emphasized that the government’s priority is to ensure the safety and quality of these imported food items, without compromising on standards.
To further enhance food supply, the Federal Government will also import 250,000 metric tons of wheat and 250,000 metric tons of maize. These imported food commodities, in their semi-processed state, will be directed towards small-scale processors and millers across the country.
This strategic move by the government aims to increase the availability of essential food items and stabilize their prices in the market. By providing a duty-free import window and importing food commodities directly, the government is actively addressing the current challenges faced by the agricultural sector.
This news comes as a relief to both consumers and farmers, as it will help bridge the gap between supply and demand, ensuring that Nigerians have access to an adequate and diverse food supply.
