The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has strongly opposed the proposed 15% increase in port-related charges, warning that it will significantly raise production costs and worsen inflation.
In a statement on Sunday, MAN’s Director General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, criticized the timing of the increase, highlighting the challenges businesses already face, including high exchange rates, surging energy costs, and economic uncertainty.
Ajayi-Kadir warned that the tariff hike could encourage smuggling and reduce government port revenues. He noted that 80% of Nigeria’s traded goods are transported by sea, and increasing charges would undermine the competitiveness of local manufacturers reliant on imported raw materials.
While acknowledging the Nigeria Ports Authority’s (NPA) need for revenue, MAN advised against tariff hikes, proposing alternatives such as improving port efficiency, reducing congestion, and adopting competitive pricing strategies.
The association urged the NPA to reconsider the planned increase and engage stakeholders in meaningful dialogue to find a sustainable solution that supports industrial growth and economic stability.
