The United States has imposed a new 12.5 percent tariff on products imported from Nigeria after determining that the country has not effectively enforced a ban on goods produced with forced labour.
The decision was announced by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) following a Section 301 investigation into the trade practices of 60 economies.
According to the USTR, Nigeria was among 54 countries found to have inadequate measures to prevent the importation of goods made wholly or partly with forced labour. As a result, most Nigerian exports to the United States will now attract an additional 12.5 percent duty, except for products covered by specified exemptions.
The new tariff takes effect from July 24, 2026, although goods already in transit will benefit from a temporary grace period.
The USTR explained that countries with effective forced labour import bans or those that committed to implementing such measures through trade agreements were placed on a lower tariff rate of 10 percent. Nigeria was grouped among countries that, according to the United States, have not taken sufficient action.
The investigation began in March 2026 and included public consultations with governments, industry groups, businesses and civil society organisations before the final decision was reached.
The U.S. government also announced exemptions for certain products, including informational materials, donations, accompanied baggage and selected goods already covered by existing trade measures.
The latest tariff is expected to affect Nigerian exporters seeking access to the U.S. market and may increase pressure for stronger enforcement of labour related trade regulations.
