By Deborah Nnamdi
The United States has condemned Nigeria’s ban on 25 product categories, arguing that it obstructs American exports and exacerbates trade tensions.
The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) highlighted the restrictions—spanning beef, poultry, fruit juice, pharmaceuticals, and spirits—as one of the top 10 unfair trade practices by foreign countries.
“These policies create significant trade barriers that lead to lost revenue for U.S. businesses looking to expand in the Nigerian market,” the USTR said in a post on X.
Nigeria is among several countries, including India, Thailand, Kenya, and the EU, singled out for policies the U.S. claims are collectively blocking billions in potential exports.
India and Thailand’s restrictions on U.S. ethanol, along with Kenya’s 50% corn tariff, were also highlighted.
The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) cautioned that such practices harm American farmers, manufacturers, and workers, contributing to job losses and factory closures.
China, in particular, was criticized for undermining U.S. flag manufacturers, with $2 million in monthly sales lost to Chinese imports.
This report comes as the U.S. intensifies protectionist measures under Trump’s trade agenda.
