The Nigeria Customs Service Board has approved a De Minimis threshold of $300 for the country, applicable to low-value imports, e-commerce consignments, and passenger baggage. This decision was made during the board’s 63rd regular meeting, chaired by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun. The new policy will take effect on Monday, September 8, 2025.
The De Minimis threshold refers to the value below which imported goods are exempt from customs duties and taxes, as defined by national legislation. This means that imports with a value of $300 or less will not be subject to customs duties and taxes. The board clarified that this threshold is intended to facilitate the clearance of low-value imports and ease the process for individuals and businesses engaging in international trade.
The Nigeria Customs Service Board also warned that any attempts to manipulate invoices or evade duty obligations will result in penalties. This move aims to prevent abuse of the new policy and ensure compliance with customs regulations. The board’s decision is expected to have a positive impact on Nigeria’s trade sector, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises that engage in international trade.
The approval of the De Minimis threshold comes at a time when the Nigerian Customs Service is implementing various reforms to improve its operations and enhance trade facilitation. Recently, the service announced promotions for its officers, which is expected to boost morale and improve the overall efficiency of the service.
The implementation of the De Minimis threshold is a significant development in Nigeria’s trade policy, and its impact will be closely monitored by stakeholders in the trade sector. As the new policy takes effect, it is expected that there will be an increase in the volume of low-value imports, which could have a positive impact on the country’s economy. The Nigeria Customs Service Board will likely continue to review and refine its policies to ensure that they remain relevant and effective in facilitating international trade.
