The United Kingdom has reaffirmed that Nigeria will continue to benefit from duty-free access on 99% of goods exported to the UK under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).
This was confirmed in a statement issued on Friday by the Communications Office of the British High Commission.
Launched in June 2023, the DCTS enables Nigeria and 36 other African nations to export more than 3,000 products to the UK at zero or reduced tariffs. The scheme aims to support economic growth by making Nigerian businesses more competitive globally while also offering cost advantages to UK businesses and consumers.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, highlighted the importance of the initiative:
“As one of the UK’s most important partners in Africa, Nigeria stands at the heart of our global trade ambitions. We’re committed to deepening our trade relations and unlocking sustainable, transformative growth in Nigeria and across emerging economies.”
Dr. Montgomery emphasized that the scheme removes or significantly reduces tariffs on a wide range of everyday products, including cashew nuts, cocoa, cotton, plantains, tomatoes, prawns, and sesame seeds.
“This isn’t just about easier access to UK markets—it’s about creating a fairer global trading system that boosts job creation and economic growth in both developing countries and the UK,” he added.
The High Commissioner also noted that the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership is working closely with Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to help businesses maximize the benefits of the DCTS and overcome export barriers.
Through the scheme, Nigerian exporters can access the UK market with both raw and processed agricultural products like yam, cocoa butter, palm oil, cotton clothing, and more, supporting the shift from raw exports to value-added products.
The DCTS forms part of the UK’s broader strategy to strengthen global trade ties, alongside other recent agreements with major economies like India and the United States.
As of the end of 2024, total bilateral trade between the UK and Nigeria stood at £7.2 billion, reflecting a 7.6% decrease (or £596 million) compared to 2023.
