UK Maintains 99% Duty-Free Access for Nigerian Exports Under Trade Scheme

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing trade relations with Nigeria by maintaining duty-free access for 99% of Nigerian exports under its Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).

Introduced in 2023, the DCTS is aimed at simplifying trade procedures and reducing tariffs for developing economies. The scheme currently allows over 3,000 products from Nigeria and 36 other African nations to enter the UK market either duty-free or at significantly reduced tariffs.

Nigerian exports benefiting from the scheme include both raw and processed agricultural products such as cocoa, yam, tomatoes, plantain, shrimp, cashew nuts, palm oil, and cotton apparel. The DCTS is part of the UK’s broader strategy to deepen economic ties with emerging markets and promote sustainable trade.

Speaking on the initiative, British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, emphasized the UK’s long-term partnership with Nigeria. “This is not just about removing tariffs , it's about creating opportunities, supporting job creation, and ensuring inclusive growth through fairer trade,” he said.

Dr. Montgomery also highlighted the role of the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), a bilateral platform that works with Nigeria’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment to address non-tariff barriers and streamline trade processes.

The UK government says the DCTS complements similar agreements with countries like India and the United States, positioning Nigeria as a key player in the UK’s global trade agenda.

“Nigeria stands at the heart of our trade vision for Africa,” Dr. Montgomery added. “This scheme reinforces our shared commitment to economic development and resilient supply chains.”

The continued implementation of the DCTS is expected to boost Nigeria’s export competitiveness and enhance the country’s integration into global value chains.