The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to Nigeria’s economic growth, announcing that 99% of goods exported from Nigeria will continue to enjoy duty-free access under the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).
This was disclosed in a statement by the British High Commission in Abuja on Friday, highlighting the scheme’s role in deepening trade relations between both nations.
Launched in June 2023, the DCTS allows Nigeria and 36 other African nations to export more than 3,000 products to the UK either completely duty-free or at reduced tariffs. The initiative not only helps Nigerian businesses expand globally but also makes UK imports more affordable for British consumers.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, described Nigeria as a vital trade partner for the UK in Africa, adding that the trade scheme is a step towards building “a fairer, freer global trading system.”
“As one of the UK’s most important partners in Africa, Nigeria stands at the heart of the UK’s global trade ambitions,” Montgomery said. “We want to strengthen the trade ties between our two great nations and unlock the power of sustainable and transformative growth in Nigeria and across emerging economies.”
He noted that the DCTS eliminates or reduces tariffs on everyday exports like cocoa, cashew nuts, cotton, tomatoes, prawns, sesame, plantain, and yams. The scheme also supports processed and value-added exports including cocoa paste and butter, sesame oil, cashew products, and cotton textiles—helping Nigeria move beyond raw commodities.
“This isn’t just about market access,” Montgomery added. “It’s about creating jobs, encouraging value addition, and supporting inclusive economic development.”
The UK is also working closely with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment through the UK-Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership to resolve export bottlenecks and help local businesses fully tap into the benefits of the scheme.
Despite a dip in trade volume last year, with total UK-Nigeria bilateral trade dropping to £7.2 billion in 2024 down 7.6% from the previous year officials from both countries remain optimistic that frameworks like the DCTS will boost commercial ties moving forward.
The initiative forms part of the UK’s broader global trade strategy, which includes strengthening ties with major economies such as India and the United States.
