“Nigeria Customs Introduces $300 Duty-Free Import Policy for Travellers and Online Shoppers”
Story written by Okafor Joseph September 8,2025
The initiative, known as the “de minimis” threshold, officially took effect on September 8, 2025, after approval by the Nigeria Customs Service Board during its 63rd meeting chaired by Finance Minister Wale Edun.
What the New Duty-Free Policy Covers
According to NCS spokesperson Abdullahi Maiwada, the duty-free waiver applies to:
- E-commerce purchases from international platforms.
- Express shipments and courier deliveries.
- Items in passenger baggage.
The exemption allows up to four importations per person annually, provided the items are not prohibited goods. Qualifying shipments will also benefit from instant clearance without additional paperwork.
Why Nigeria Adopted the Policy
Maiwada explained that the Customs Board carefully reviewed international best practices before adopting the $300 threshold. Many countries already operate similar duty-free limits to encourage cross-border e-commerce and reduce administrative bottlenecks.
Officials say the measure will:
- Boost online shopping from abroad.
- Reduce clearance delays at ports and airports.
- Align Nigeria with global trade standards.
Penalties for Abuse
While the system is designed to simplify trade, the NCS warned against abuse. Attempts to manipulate invoices or split larger shipments to fall under the $300 limit will attract severe penalties, including:
- Forfeiture of goods.
- Arrest of offenders.
- Other sanctions under the NCS Act, 2023.
Support for Importers and Travellers
To ensure smooth implementation, Customs will establish dedicated helpdesks at key entry points to handle complaints, guide importers, and provide clarity on the new rules.
With this policy, Nigeria aims to strengthen its e-commerce ecosystem, support small-scale importers, and focus customs enforcement on larger commercial shipments.
