By Adenike Lawal
The Nigeria Customs Service has announced duty and VAT exemptions on raw materials used for healthcare production in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Executive Order to reduce medical costs.
Customs Spokesman Abdullahi Maiwada disclosed on March 26, 2025, that the exemptions cover key pharmaceutical ingredients, insecticidal nets, diagnostic kits, reagents, and packaging materials.
The policy, set to last two years, applies only to manufacturers recognized by the Federal Ministry of Health.
To qualify, manufacturers must possess a valid Tax Identification Number and official recognition from the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
The Customs Service has also pledged quarterly reports to ensure transparency and accountability in the policy’s implementation.
This initiative is expected to lower production costs for essential healthcare products, making them more affordable and accessible across Nigeria.
