Title: “Nigeria Customs Sets 90-Day Window for Duty Payment on Improperly Imported Vehicles”
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under the directive of the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, has introduced a 90-day window for the regularization of import duties on specific categories of vehicles that were improperly imported into the country.
The aim of this initiative is to streamline import processes and ensure compliance with customs regulations.
According to Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service, the 90-day window applies to vehicles imported into Nigeria where the required customs duty has not been fulfilled or vehicles that have been detained due to undervaluation.
However, it is important to note that vehicles that have been seized and condemned will not be released under this arrangement and will be forfeited to the Federal Government in accordance with existing regulations.
Vehicle owners, importers, and agents who wish to regularize the import duties on their vehicles are required to apply to the Zonal Coordinators (Zones A, B, C, D) and CAC FCT Command. They must submit the necessary documents and follow the registration process outlined by the Federal Ministry of Finance for imported motor vehicles.
The valuation and assessment of the vehicles will be carried out using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) valuation method. Import duty and a 25% penalty must be paid in accordance with the import guidelines, procedures, and documentation requirements for used vehicles under the Destination Inspection Scheme in Nigeria (2013) and the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
Duty payments must be made using the Procedure Code specifically created for this exercise.
The Nigeria Customs Service emphasizes its commitment to facilitating compliance and encourages all stakeholders to take advantage of this opportunity within the specified timeframe.
This initiative aims to address the issue of improperly imported vehicles and promote adherence to customs regulations, ultimately ensuring transparency and accountability in the importation process.
