U.S. faults Nigeria’s import ban on beef, pork, poultry, fruit juice

The United States has criticized Nigeria’s import restrictions on 25 product categories, describing the policy as a barrier to American exports and a contributor to rising global trade tensions.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) said Nigeria’s import policies were hurting U.S. businesses, especially in key sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods.

“Nigeria’s import ban on 25 different product categories impacts U.S. exporters, particularly in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods,” the USTR said. “Restrictions on items like beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and spirits limit U.S. market access and reduce export opportunities.”

“These policies create significant trade barriers that lead to lost revenue for U.S. businesses looking to expand in the Nigerian market,” the statement added.

The criticism comes as Washington ramps up pressure on trading partners over what it terms unfair trade practices, even as the U.S. itself faces pushback for a sweeping round of tariffs championed by former President Donald Trump, now once again a dominant force in U.S. trade policy.

Nigeria has previously defended its import bans as measures to protect local industries, conserve foreign exchange, and drive economic diversification. But critics argue that such policies also drive up costs for consumers and can trigger retaliatory trade actions.

The USTR’s remarks placed Nigeria among a list of countries — including India, Kenya, Angola, and members of the European Union — accused of restricting U.S. market access. Angola, for instance, plans to limit poultry and meat import licenses by mid-2025, a move that could affect U.S. exporters, while Kenya maintains a 50% tariff on American corn.

Last week, President Donald Trump announced a 14% tariff on Nigerian exports. Nigeria, which exports about $10 billion worth of goods annually to the U.S., much of that crude oil, has said it will avoid retaliation. Instead, Nigeria said it would approach the World Trade Organisation (WTO) for a beneficial solution to all parties.

“In response to the recent tariff announcements, Nigeria remains actively engaged in consultations with U.S. counterparts and the WTO, approaching evolving trade dynamics with pragmatism and a commitment to mutually beneficial solutions,” Trade Minister Jumoke Oduwole said in a statement.