*** IMAN Urges Government to Reconsider 4% FOB Levy
*** Clarion Shipping West Africa Launches New Shipping Line to Ease Trade Costs
By Sandra Chukwunyere
In a strong stance, the Importers Association of Nigeria (IMAN) has denounced the proposed 4% Free-On-Board (FOB) levy by the Nigeria Customs Service, labeling it a “policy blunder” that would cripple industries, fuel inflation, and worsen the cost of living for Nigerians.
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The association’s leadership, led by High Chief Gilbert E. Obi, Acting National President and Chairman, Board of Trustees on Wednesday expressed concerns that the levy would impose unbearable costs on businesses and consumers.
The National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of IMAN, held at its Southwest Zonal Secretariat in Apapa, Lagos, brought together members of the Board of Trustees, National Executive Committee, zonal chairmen, and state administrators.
The gathering addressed pressing issues, including the 4% FOB levy, internal challenges facing the association, and strategies for repositioning IMAN to play a stronger role in Nigeria’s international trade and logistics supply chain.
According to Obi, Nigeria’s import-dependent economy would be severely impacted by the levy, leading to increased costs of essential goods such as gas, spare parts, machinery, and raw materials.
He cited the example of a 2006 Toyota Corolla, which now costs between ₦6-9 million, and highlighted the drastic rise in operational costs for freight forwarders. Obi dismissed Customs’ justification that the levy would fund its modernization programme, describing it as “epileptic if not comatose.”
The NEC meeting also addressed internal challenges facing the association, including the existence of splinter groups within IMAN. Obi called for unity and reconciliation, urging members to embark on a “peace mission” to strengthen the association.
He commended the Southwest Zone for hosting the meeting and appealed to members to contribute ideas that would foster peace and position IMAN to play a stronger role in defending the interests of importers and the Nigerian economy.
In a related development, Clarion Shipping West Africa announced the launch of a new shipping line that will directly connect Nigeria with China and Saudi Arabia for both imports and exports.
The Vice President of Clarion Shipping, Eloka Belladine Ifeoma, praised Nigerian importers for their pivotal role in sustaining economic activities across multiple sectors and assured them that Clarion Shipping would offer competitive freight rates and provide flexible clearance options.
