Importers Decry Surcharge on Nigerian Cargoes

Nigeria Importers have kicked against the huge surcharge imposed by the international shipping firms on cargoes across the world.

The importers said that the surcharges have increased the cost of production and business in general, saying despite the negative effects of COVID-19 on the sector and importers, shipping firms are still increasing charges on Nigerian imports.

It was discovered that recently, about $1025 surcharge was levied on 20ft and 40ft cargo container that was coming from the United State and US Territories, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau.

The fee is different from the ocean tariff rate, bunker-related surcharges, security-related surcharges, terminal handling charges and other charges that increased shipping cost to Nigeria.

Mr. Hassan Bello, the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers Council, described the act as inconsiderate and he pledged to fight against it, saying “We are protesting against it vehemently. There was no notice to us and the shippers that the charge was imminent.”

“It is insensitive. Just when the Nigerian economy is recovering a little bit from the effect of COVID-19, it is insensitive for anybody to slam such charges of over $1,000 on Nigeria’s trade.

“It is discriminatory because it is not happening in Togo, Benin or Ghana; why should it be in Nigeria?

“We have written a strong letter to the shipping association of Nigeria and we also wrote to their principals overseas because this is not a local charge.”

Kingsley Chikezie, the President, Importers Association of Nigeria and the Chairman of Lagos State Shippers Association, Jonathan Nichol assured importers to look into the matter with the appropriate agencies.