US Criticizes Nigeria’s Import Ban on 25 Goods, Cites Trade Barriers

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has slammed Nigeria’s continued import ban on 25 categories of goods, describing it as a significant barrier to American exports.

In a statement posted Monday on X, USTR said the restrictions — which affect agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods — have limited market access and caused revenue losses for U.S. businesses.

The ban, initiated in 2016 under former President Muhammadu Buhari to boost local production, includes poultry, sugar, vegetable oil, cement, soaps, and certain medications. The Nigerian government recently added solar panels to the list.

“These policies create significant trade barriers that lead to lost revenue for U.S. businesses,” the USTR said, urging Nigeria to reconsider the restrictions to foster fair trade.