NEPZA tightens enforcement against illegal container importation in Free Trade Zones

The Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) has implemented stricter import checks in Free Trade Zones to combat illegal imports and regulatory infractions. Managing Director Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi revealed these enforcement measures during a statement released by the Authority's Head of Corporate Communications, Dr. Martins Odeh, in Abuja.

The heightened actions aim to address claims of illicit container imports and ensure adherence to import and export procedures within Nigeria's Free Trade Zones. Ogunyemi emphasized that strict compliance with regulations governing transactions within the controlled marketplace is mandatory for all Free Trade Zone operators. He stressed that operating licenses serve as legal obligations and the foundation for a fair and transparent marketplace.

The measures will encompass increased inspections, deeper scrutiny of documentation, and coordinated efforts with allied enforcement agencies. Violators will face penalties stipulated by law. Ogunyemi cautioned operators against bypassing lawful import and export procedures, providing false declarations, or transporting containers through unauthorized pathways.

He stated that the measures are meant to safeguard NEPZA's systems and foster a level playing field for businesses. He added that illegal imports not only undermine legitimate commerce but also expose communities to unregulated goods and diminish public trust. Ogunyemi noted that the majority of operators adhere to regulations, meet their obligations, and contribute to a well-regulated trade environment.

The enforcement measures are directed at operators accused of breaching import and export procedures rather than lawful businesses. This comes amid NEPZA's broader initiative to position Nigeria's Free Trade Zones as investment and export hubs, focusing on anchor projects, shared infrastructure, job creation, and export-oriented production.

The Authority's efforts also include job creation and export-oriented production. Businesses operating in Nigeria's Free Trade Zones enjoy tax breaks, customs duty waivers, and other incentives designed to minimize production costs and spur investment. In December 2025, Nairametrics reported that NEPZA had requested the Federal Government to grant Special Economic Zone operators a 10-year tax exemption, citing uncertainty over the new tax laws as a potential threat to investor confidence.

Nigeria hosts 63 Free Trade Zones with over 700 enterprises, according to NEPZA. These businesses, which benefit from the incentives, are also expected to contribute to local capacity development, including through training Nigerians as part of their corporate social responsibility activities.