The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has announced a new trade policy by the United States Government that imposes a ₦123,000 ($80) fee on all shipments into the U.S. from Nigeria and other countries.
The directive, which took effect on August 29, 2025, excludes only letters and documents but covers all other goods sent via postal channels.
This decision stems from an Executive Order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump, invoking the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
The move suspends duty-free treatment for all countries, effectively changing how international packages are processed and taxed at U.S. entry points.
According to a notice issued by NIPOST, the new regulation is global in scope and not targeted at Nigeria alone.
It affects all designated postal administrations worldwide. However, the economic implications for Nigeria’s growing export and e-commerce sectors could be significant.
Under the new rule, all U.S.-bound shipments from Nigeria—from small parcels to large packages—must pay the customs duty upfront in naira equivalent at the point of acceptance in Nigeria.
The additional cost will be collected before dispatch, ensuring compliance with U.S. Customs.
This means small-scale exporters, online retailers, and individuals sending goods to family or clients in America will now bear an extra ₦123,000 per shipment, regardless of the item’s value.
For businesses that rely on frequent shipping, this could raise operational costs dramatically and discourage cross-border trade.
Industry experts warn that the fee could also dampen Nigeria’s booming SME e-commerce sector, where entrepreneurs sell fashion, food, and craft products to diaspora communities in the U.S.
Many of these businesses operate on thin profit margins and may struggle to absorb the new surcharge.
The decision comes amid broader U.S. trade protectionist policies under President Trump.
In recent weeks, Washington has increased tariffs on imports from several countries, including Nigeria, citing the need to protect American industries and reduce trade deficits.
NIPOST clarified that while the measure is part of a global policy shift, it places developing countries like Nigeria in a tough position.
Unlike advanced economies, Nigeria’s export base is still fragile, and the U.S. remains one of its top trading partners outside oil exports.
Beyond the immediate surcharge, Nigerian goods shipped to the U.S. will now undergo stricter customs checks, potentially causing delays in delivery and raising compliance costs.
NIPOST has assured customers that it will work with stakeholders to manage the transition.
However, it emphasized that the directive is binding on all postal administrations, meaning no exemptions can be granted.
The Nigerian government, on its part, has expressed concerns. Earlier this week, officials vowed to consider retaliatory trade measures against U.S. imports if the policy is not reviewed.
Analysts suggest that a trade standoff could further strain Nigeria-U.S. relations, especially in the non-oil trade sector.
For ordinary Nigerians sending packages to the U.S., the new charge means:
Higher costs for personal shipments (e.g., gifts, small business deliveries).
Reduced competitiveness for Nigerian small businesses exporting goods.
Potential delays as customs processes become stricter.
Risk of reduced trade volumes as individuals and companies seek alternative markets.
Economists argue that Nigeria must use this challenge as a wake-up call to diversify its export markets, strengthen regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), and reduce dependency on U.S.-bound exports.
Experts advise Nigerian entrepreneurs to:
Consolidate shipments to reduce per-package costs.
Explore alternative courier companies or trade routes outside U.S. channels.
Leverage digital trade platforms to connect with markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa where shipping barriers may be lower.
Push for government-to-government negotiations to ease the burden on exporters.
The U.S. decision to impose a flat ₦123,000 charge on shipments from Nigeria and other countries marks a turning point in global trade relations.
While the move is part of Washington’s broader protectionist agenda, its impact on Nigeria’s e-commerce, SME exports, and personal remittances cannot be ignored.
As NIPOST works to implement the new rule, Nigerian businesses will need to adapt quickly, while policymakers face pressure to respond diplomatically and economically to protect the country’s trade interests.