The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria is deeply concerned about both the substance and the implications of the new U.S. tariff policy.
For MAN, “Our foremost concern lies in the asymmetry of the trade action which undermines the spirit of international cooperation and disregards the developmental needs of emerging economies.”
MAN is also wary of potential pressure on Nigeria to reciprocate by reducing its own tariffs on U.S. goods.
“While the U.S. may frame this as a step toward “fair trade,” the reality is that lowering tariffs on U.S. imports could flood the Nigerian market with subsidized goods, thereby undermining local producers. This is especially troubling given the weak state of Nigeria’s infrastructure, logistics, and energy supply—all of which already place local manufacturers at a disadvantage.”
Another key concern is the risk of policy diversion. Argues MAN: “Nigeria has, in recent years, made commendable strides toward achieving self-sufficiency in several manufacturing segments and diversifying away from oil. However, succumbing to external pressures to liberalize trade prematurely would reverse these gains. Instead of supporting domestic production, such actions would signal to investors and industrialists that Nigeria lacks a coherent long-term trade and industrial policy.
“Furthermore, the absence of institutional capacity to engage in sophisticated trade negotiations places Nigeria in a vulnerable position. While countries with advanced legal and economic institutions may be able to negotiate favourable terms, Nigeria is at a disadvantage due to capacity constraints. This could lead to suboptimal agreements that serve foreign interests more than domestic development objectives.”
