The United States has imposed a 12.5% tariff on most imports from Nigeria, citing concerns over the country’s enforcement against goods linked to forced labour. Nigeria is among 60 trading partners affected by the latest trade measures announced by the Trump administration.
According to US officials, the new tariffs are part of a broader effort to discourage forced labour in global supply chains and ensure that trading partners strengthen measures to prevent products made with forced labour from entering international markets. The duties were implemented under Section 301 of the US Trade Act of 1974 after investigations into the labour enforcement practices of multiple countries.
The tariff replaces earlier temporary levies and will apply to most Nigerian exports entering the United States, although several categories—including oil, natural gas, fertilisers, certain food products, and other exempt goods—are not affected by the new policy. Similar tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5% have also been imposed on dozens of other economies, including China, India, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.
Washington argues that countries failing to adequately address forced labour create an uneven playing field for American businesses and workers. US officials say the measures are intended to encourage stronger labour protections while promoting fairer international trade practices.
The decision is expected to increase costs for Nigerian exporters that rely on the US market, particularly manufacturers and non-oil exporters. Trade analysts warn that the additional tariff could reduce the competitiveness of Nigerian products in the United States if businesses are unable to absorb the added costs or pass them on to buyers.
The move has also sparked criticism from several countries affected by the broader tariff package, with some governments questioning the justification for the measures and warning of possible impacts on global trade. Despite the criticism, the Trump administration maintains that the tariffs are necessary to strengthen enforcement against forced labour and protect American economic interests.
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