NMDPRA suspends 15% import duty on PMS, Diesel imports
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority has suspended a planned 15 percent import duty on foreign-refined Premium Motor Spirit and diesel. The agency confirmed the tax is no longer being considered, adding it would monitor supply chains to prevent fuel shortages.
This decision has drawn criticism from business and civil society groups. The Ogun State Chamber of Commerce described the policy reversal as a setback for economic reform, arguing it fails to protect local refiners like the Dangote facility and undermines efforts to conserve foreign exchange. The Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organisations similarly stated that the suspension benefits fuel importers while disadvantaging domestic production.
Both groups urged the federal government to reconsider its position, emphasizing that consistent policy support is necessary for energy security and long-term industrial growth.
