The Federal Government has announced the suspension of tax, import duties on some essential food items,such as maize, wheat, brown rice and others.
This was made known by Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, during a press briefing at the National Press Centre, Abuja on Monday, July 8.
According to Kyari, the listed food items, which include maize, wheat, husked brown rice, and cowpeas, will enjoy a 150-day Duty-Free Import Window.
He added that the move is part of the Presidential Accelerated Stabilization and Advancement Plan, which is aimed at achieving food security and economic stability in the country.
He said, “The Federal Government has announced a 150-day Duty-Free Import Window for Food Commodities, suspension of duties, tariffs and taxes for the importation of certain food commodities (through land and sea borders). These commodities include maize, husked brown rice, wheat and cowpeas.
“Under this arrangement, imported food commodities will be subjected to a Recommended Retail Price (RRP).
“I am glad to reiterate that the Government’s position exemplifies standards that would not compromise the safety of the various food items for consumption.
“In addition to the importation by the private sector, the Federal Government will import 250,000MT of wheat and 250,000MT of maize. The imported food commodities in their semi-processed state will target supplies to the small-scale processors and millers across the country.”
Kayir added that the federal government has inaugurated the Renewed Hope National Livestock Transformation Implementation Committee to develop and implement policies that prioritize livestock development.
