By Ken Chiwendu
The Federal Government has announced the temporary suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes for the importation of certain food items via land and sea borders.
These food items specifically include maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas
The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari disclosed this during a press conference in Abuja.
According to him, the temporary suspension of the food items will be for a period of ninety days.
“There will be a 150-day duty-free import window for food commodities, involving the suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes for the importation of maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas through land and sea borders.” The Minister stated.
He emphasized that imported food commodities under this initiative will be subject to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP) to regulate market prices and ensure affordability.
The Minister reiterates the commitment of the Tinubu government to upholding safety standards for all food items imported for consumption.
He announced further plans by the Federal Government to import 250,000 metric tons (MT) each of wheat and maize. These imported commodities, in semi-processed form, aim to bolster supplies to small-scale processors and millers nationwide.
