The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, announced on Monday that the Federal Government has suspended duties, tariffs, and taxes for the importation of certain food items through land and sea borders.
Among the food items eligible for this suspension are maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas. Additionally, Kyari revealed a 150-Day Duty-Free Import Window for food commodities.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Kyari said: “150-Day Duty-Free Import Window for Food Commodities, suspension of duties, tariffs and taxes for the importation of certain food commodities (through land and sea borders). These commodities include maize, husked brown rice, wheat and cowpeas.
“Under this arrangement, imported food commodities will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP).
“I am glad to reiterate that the Government’s position exemplifies standards that would not compromise the safety of the various food items for consumption.
“In addition to the importation by private sector, Federal Government will import 250,000MT of wheat and 250,000MT of maize. The imported food commodities in their semi processed state will target supplies to the small-scale processors and millers across the country.”