The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has secured approvals to implement a 15% increase in port tariffs, a move aimed at enhancing port infrastructure and competitiveness. This adjustment, the first since 1993, has sparked concerns among port operators and business stakeholders, who warn of rising operational costs and potential increases in commodity prices.
NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, announced the decision during a stakeholders’ engagement in Lagos. He explained that the tariff adjustment was long overdue and necessary for Nigeria’s ports to remain competitive with global counterparts. The funds generated will be used for modernizing port facilities, upgrading infrastructure, and implementing the Port Community System (PCS) and National Single Window (NSW)—initiatives designed to streamline operations and reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Dr. Dantsoho emphasized that global trade competitiveness depends on how well ports manage infrastructure, technology, and operational efficiency. He acknowledged that bureaucratic bottlenecks and human interference have contributed to inefficiencies in Nigerian ports, leading to higher unreceipted costs and delays.Industry stakeholders are divided on the potential impact of the tariff hike.
Freight forwarders and customs agents argue that the additional charges will increase the cost of doing business, as importers will transfer the added expenses to consumers.
Commodity traders fear that the rise in tariffs will contribute to higher prices for essential goods, further straining the economy.
Some stakeholders support the increase, citing inflation and rising operational costs that have made the previous tariff rates unsustainable.
Despite these concerns, the NPA assured businesses that the review will not affect certain charges, including throughput and lease fees, rents on NPA properties, service boat operations, and towage fees.
While the NPA maintains that the tariff hike will help fund crucial port upgrades, stakeholders remain wary of its short-term impact on businesses and consumers. With inflation and economic pressures already affecting the market, the revised tariffs could further escalate the cost of goods and services across various sectors.
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