FG Suspends Duties, Tariffs, and Taxes on Essential Food Items to Address Food Inflation

The Federal Government has announced the suspension of duties, tariffs, and taxes on essential food items imported through land and sea borders, in a bid to address the food inflation crisis in the country.

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The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, made this known during a press briefing at the National Press Centre, Abuja on Monday.

According to Kyari, the listed food items, which include maize, wheat, husked brown rice, and cowpeas, will enjoy a 150-day Duty-Free Import Window.

He stated that the move is part of the Presidential Accelerated Stabilization and Advancement Plan, aimed at achieving food security and economic stability in the country.

“The Federal Government has announced a 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,” Kyari said.

He added that the imported food commodities will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP), to ensure that the prices are not compromised. “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,” Kyari assured.

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The minister also announced that the Federal Government will import 250,000MT of wheat and 250,000MT of maize, which will target supplies to small-scale processors and millers across the country.

In addition, Kyari inaugurated the Renewed Hope National Livestock Transformation Implementation Committee, to develop and implement policies that prioritize livestock development and align with the National Livestock Transformation Plan.