Nigeria’s Customs Service Issues a Conditional Lifting of Ban on Exporting Processed Wood, Charcoal and Allied Products
Good news for exporters and those involved in the production of processed wood, charcoal, and other related items in Nigeria, as the Customs Service has announced a conditional lifting of the ban on their exportation. The Administrative ban was initially placed on these items, but it has been lifted with immediate effect. According to a circular signed by Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Musa MBA, the administrative ban on the export of processed wood, charcoal, and allied products is hereby lifted, but with conditions that must be strictly adhered to.
The Lifted Ban
The circular disclosed that the lift on the ban is conditional. The administrative ban is lifted with immediate effect, except for threatened plants that are classified as endangered species (CITES listed) such as Rosewood, Pterocarpus erinaceus remains prohibited from being exported. Hence, all requests for the exportation of processed wood, charcoal, and other allied products must be supported by a letter of approval obtained from the Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget, and National Planning before exportation is initiated.
Strict Compliance to Guidelines
Furthermore, the Customs Service directive noted that strict compliance with provisions of the extant guidelines for non-oil export is mandatory. As such, exporters must collaborate with forest officers at the ports and borders to ensure proper identification and prevention of prohibited wood products to curb an upsurge in illegal export of endangered plant species.
The Customs Service continues in its effort to foster fair trade and protect Nigeria’s natural resources, thus increasing revenue generation through legitimate trade in its jurisdiction. This is a significant milestone towards an export-friendly environment and incentives for individuals and companies seeking to earn foreign exchange legitimately.
