3,500 Nigerian Products Now Enjoy Duty-Free Access to UK Market

The United Kingdom has announced that over 3,500 goods exported from Nigeria are now eligible for zero-duty entry under its new Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), a trade arrangement aimed at strengthening economic ties and boosting trade with developing nations. This development means that about 99 percent of Nigeria’s exportable products now benefit from either complete or partial tariff waivers when entering the UK market.

The policy, which came into effect as part of the UK’s broader trade strategy post-Brexit, is designed to encourage export diversification and economic development in partner countries. For Nigeria, it represents a significant opportunity to expand its non-oil export base and increase foreign exchange earnings through agricultural products, semi-processed goods, and manufactured items.

Among the key Nigerian exports covered by the scheme are agricultural commodities such as cocoa, sesame seeds, ginger, hibiscus, cashew nuts, plantains, yams, and palm oil. Also included are processed and value-added products like shea butter, textiles, leather items, dried seafood, cotton garments, and various tropical fruits.

Officials from the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment welcomed the development, noting that it aligns with Nigeria’s ongoing “Zero-Oil” initiative, which aims to reduce the nation’s overdependence on crude oil revenues. They described the scheme as a timely intervention to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and local manufacturers aiming to access high-value markets like the UK.

The British High Commission in Nigeria also expressed optimism about the scheme’s potential to transform trade relations between both countries. It reiterated the UK’s commitment to helping Nigerian exporters meet international standards, improve competitiveness, and take full advantage of the expanded market access.

To qualify for the duty-free benefits under the DCTS, Nigerian exporters are required to comply with specific rules of origin, quality assurance measures, and packaging guidelines set by UK authorities. The government has promised to work closely with relevant agencies to ensure that exporters are well-informed and properly supported to meet these requirements.

Trade experts have praised the initiative as a major step forward but warned that without adequate infrastructure, quality control systems, and logistics support, many Nigerian businesses might struggle to fully benefit from the scheme. They also called for improvements in certification processes, port efficiency, and access to finance for exporters to scale their operations and meet growing demand.

Local manufacturers and export associations have reacted positively, describing the development as a game changer for the Nigerian export landscape. According to several industry players, the removal of tariffs will make Nigerian goods more price-competitive in the UK and increase demand from British buyers looking for affordable alternatives to products from Asia and Latin America.

Some stakeholders, however, expressed caution, noting that similar opportunities in the past were underutilized due to regulatory bottlenecks and lack of awareness. They emphasized the need for widespread sensitization campaigns and hands-on training for local producers on export documentation, market entry strategies, and quality management.

In addition, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has indicated its readiness to support businesses with technical assistance, product certification, and access to trade intelligence to help them take full advantage of the new opportunities. The Council plans to host a series of outreach programs and trade clinics in collaboration with the UK government and private sector partners.

This latest development in UK–Nigeria trade relations is expected to stimulate industrial growth, create jobs, and deepen bilateral ties. Experts say that if effectively harnessed, the duty-free access can reposition Nigeria as a leading supplier of agricultural and light-manufactured goods to the UK and other advanced economies.

 

The DCTS is part of the UK’s long-term plan to redefine trade relationships with developing nations through simplified and more generous rules. For Nigeria, the challenge and opportunity now lie in translating this favourable access into concrete trade gains that can spur inclusive growth and sustainable development.