The United Kingdom has reaffirmed that 99 per cent of goods exported from Nigeria will continue to enjoy duty-free access under its Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).
 
This scheme benefits Nigerian non-oil products, particularly in agriculture and raw materials, for UK’s market access. This confirmation was made during a courtesy visit by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, to Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole.
 
According to both parties, the DCTS remains a crucial pillar of trade relations between both countries. The scheme, which came into force in June 2023, replaced the UK’s Generalised System of Preferences. It aims to boost trade with 65 developing countries by simplifying trading rules and reducing import duties on a wide range of products. Under this arrangement, Nigerian exports especially agricultural products and raw materials will continue to access the UK market without tariffs, provided they meet the origin requirements and other conditions.

Montgomery emphasised that the UK is committed to helping Nigeria fully benefit from the DCTS, noting that while duty-free access is in place, more needs to be done to support Nigerian exporters in meeting UK market standards, including product quality, packaging and regulatory compliance.
He added that the British High Commission is actively engaging with Nigerian businesses and trade associations to create more awareness and provide assistance where needed.

Oduwole described the UK’s continued support as timely, particularly as Nigeria intensifies efforts to diversify its economy away from crude oil dependence. She reiterated that the DCTS aligns with Nigeria’s national goals under the Zero-Oil Plan, which seeks to increase earnings from agriculture, manufacturing and creative exports.