The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has criticized Nigeria’s import ban on 25 categories of goods, citing limitations on market access for American exporters. The ban, implemented in 2016, affects items such as beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and alcoholic beverages.
The USTR argues that these restrictions reduce export opportunities for US businesses and lead to lost revenue. “Nigeria’s import ban on 25 different product categories impacts U.S. exporters, particularly in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods,” the agency stated.
The criticism comes after US President Donald Trump introduced tariffs on goods entering the US, with Nigeria facing a 14% duty. The move has sparked concerns about trade barriers and their impact on both countries’ economies.
The Nigerian government implemented the ban to control imports and stimulate local production. In March 2025, the Federal Government announced plans to halt solar panel imports to encourage local manufacturing as part of its push for clean energy.
