FG urged to Review 150 days Import on Essential Food Commodities
A former Member of Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Alhaji Ahmad Iliyasu, has charged the Federal Government to review the 150 days tax suspension on importation of essential food commodities aimed at addressing hunger crisis in the country.
He said the five months are grossly inadequate to allow importation and distribution of foods all over the country considering slow pace of cargo ships and distance from which goods are imported.
Mr. Ahmad who is the Sardaunar Misau gave this suggestion during a media interview in Bauchi.
“The government has opened the borders for 150 days to allow for the importation of essential food commodities, aiming to ease economic hardship. Since this timeframe is equivalent to five months, it is, in reality, too short to effectively strategise for importation and make a meaningful impact.
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“The importation process is complex, involving challenges such as obtaining foreign exchange (dollars), navigating long distances like China and Thailand where commodities are brought from, and dealing with port congestion.
“With good awaiting clearance from port for one month or more, there is issue of demurrage charges on goods that are not cleared on time, this extra charge will definitely reflect on the prices when they finally reach market. Distribution across 774 local government areas is another hurdle to cross,” he stated.
The chartered accountant encouraged the government to consider importing these commodities itself. His words, “I advise the government to review its 150-day policy and consider importing these essential food commodities itself which will allow it regulate prices, and sell at affordable rates within the purchasing power of poor Nigerians.
“This approach would allow the government to sell even at a loss if necessary, prioritising the well-being of its citizens, whereas if left in the hands of independent marketers, they may not be willing to sell at low prices given the numerous challenges involved”.
By PRNigeria
