Customs gives importers 90-day grace to regularize import duty on vehicles

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a 90-day window for importers to regularize import duties and clear improperly imported vehicles.

The initiative, directed by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun aims to enhance compliance and streamline import processes.

National Public Relations Officers of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, said in a statement on Sunday said that the initiative applies solely to vehicles imported into Nigeria where the requisite customs duty has not been fulfilled or vehicles detained due to undervaluation.

“While we strive for inclusivity, it is important to clarify that vehicles seized and condemned will not be released under this arrangement and shall be forfeited to the Federal Government in accordance with extant regulations.

“All vehicle owners, importers/agents seeking to regularize import duties on their vehicles are required to apply to the Zonal Coordinators (Zones A, B, C, D) and CAC FCT Command. They must submit the necessary available documents and process Vreg in line with the Federal Ministry of Finance directives for the registration of imported motor vehicles, ” he said.

He said the valuation and assessment of the vehicles will be carried out using the VIN valuation method.

“Import Duty and a 25% penalty shall be paid in tandem with the import guidelines, procedures, and documentation requirements for used vehicles under the Destination Inspection Scheme in Nigeria (2013) and the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. Also, duty payments must be made using the Procedure Code specifically created for this exercise, ” he said.

Maiwada added that the initiative reflects the unwavering commitment to facilitating compliance just as he encouraged all stakeholders to capitalize on this opportunity within the stipulated timeframe.