The Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents has urged the Federal Government to suspend the planned implementation of the Green Tax Policy on imported vehicles, citing inadequate consultation with stakeholders before its scheduled commencement on July 1, 2026.
In a statement issued by the association’s President, Emenike Nwokeoji, and the group argued that licensed customs agents, importers and other key players in the industry were not properly informed or engaged before the introduction of the policy.
According to the association, a policy with significant implications for import duties, cargo valuation, shipping arrangements, contractual obligations and business planning should not be introduced without broad consultation and sufficient preparation.
The group expressed concern that only a section of stakeholders in Lagos was invited for discussions barely 72 hours before the planned implementation date.
It described the late invitation as unfair and inconsistent with the principles of transparency, inclusiveness and proper stakeholder engagement that should guide the introduction of major government policies.
The association maintained that fiscal policies of such importance should be preceded by nationwide consultations, comprehensive public awareness campaigns and adequate transition periods to enable businesses prepare for compliance.
It warned that implementing the policy without proper engagement could expose legitimate businesses to avoidable financial losses while weakening investor confidence in Nigeria’s trade environment.
ANLCA also faulted the decision to apply the new levy to cargoes already on their way to Nigeria.
According to the association, importers and licensed customs agents had entered into binding commercial agreements based on the existing tariff structure, and applying the new tax to goods already in transit would amount to an unfair retrospective financial burden.
The group cautioned that such a move could lead to significant financial losses and trigger disputes among businesses involved in international trade.
It also raised concerns over the lack of clarity surrounding the implementation process, particularly the method that would be used to determine vehicle engine capacities for calculating the Green Tax.
The association said the absence of clear guidelines could result in inconsistent assessments, confusion and unnecessary disagreements while leaving importers at the discretion of individual assessment officers.
ANLCA stressed that it is not opposed to the Federal Government’s constitutional authority to formulate and implement fiscal policies.
However, it called for the immediate suspension or postponement of the Green Tax Policy until comprehensive consultations have been conducted with stakeholders across the country.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Federal Government and the Nigeria Customs Service to develop policies that support legitimate trade while advancing the nation’s economic objectives.
