Nigeria has been listed among 60 economies targeted by the United States over alleged failures to prohibit and effectively enforce bans on the importation of goods produced with forced labour.
The decision was announced by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) following investigations conducted under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act of 1974.
If approved, Nigeria could face an additional 12.5 per cent tariff on exports to the U.S. market. Combined with the existing 10 per cent baseline tariff under President Donald Trump’s reciprocal trade policy, total tariffs on Nigerian exports could rise to 27.5 per cent.
U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer said the United States would no longer tolerate trade practices that allow goods linked to forced labour to enter global markets and compete against products made under fair labour standards.
Nigeria is among 54 economies accused of failing to establish and enforce effective restrictions on forced labour imports. Other African countries named include Algeria, Angola, Egypt, Libya, Morocco and South Africa.
The USTR said the measure is intended to address labour-related trade concerns and ensure a level playing field for businesses that comply with international labour standards.
