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The Nigerian Association Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has warned that deviating from the globally-acceptable standards in the issuance of certificates of origin for goods being traded internationally portends danger for Nigerian businesses and the economy.
The National President of NACCIMA, Dele Kelvin Oye, who spoke during a courtesy call on the Acting Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, also warned that such a move could deprive the country of its ability to compete and attract foreign direct investments (FDI).
He said NACCIMA is globally recognised as the representative of the business community and plays an important role in the administration of the certificate of origin system issuance and providing other services to businesses engaged in international trade.
Oye said attempts to take over the globally-acceptable duty imposed on the chambers of commerce under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) could be disastrous for businesses.
The NACCIMA boss, however, appreciated that government by treaty can change the rules for issuing the certificates, noting that such deviation makes the certificates issued under such policies unacceptable, thereby depriving Nigeria of the ability to compete and attract foreign direct investment.
Oye said it also places Nigerian businesses at risk of their goods being rejected by fellow chambers of commerce in the destination countries, who may not accord such locally issued certificates recognition, as they were not issued by the globally-recognized and acceptable practices.
He said NACCIMA’s primary objective is to promote a favourable business environment that encourages entrepreneurship, innovation and job creation.
The NACCIMA’s boss said the association also presents its members’ interests and views to the government and policymakers to influence economic policies that benefit Nigerian businesses.
Oye, however, assured that NACCIMA will sustain collaboration with NCS as well as other government agencies and parastatals to facilitate trade and boost economic growth.
He also called for the establishment of a formal NACCIMA-NCS forum for public-private sector engagement as well as a Committee of both agencies to re-examine the customs appeal procedures in the country, according to Chapter 10 of the Revised Kyoto Convention.
Oye commended the NCS for its efforts in promoting trade and economic growth while ensuring compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.
Oye further raised concerns about the involvement of NACCIMA in the advanced ruling framework and sensitisation on the new Customs Act as well as the status of the E-Customs and modernisation programme.
He also emphasised support for the development of e-commerce policy and operations in the country, thereby making NACCIMA a co-designated competent authority with NCS under the AfCFTA Rules of Origin requirements.
Oye further stressed closer cooperation in the ongoing self-certification pilot scheme with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as well as technical support for NACCIMA Authorised Economic Operators.
He also raised concern about the lack of an appeal process on customs duties and rates as well as support for economic free trade zones and the establishment of a framework for exhibition at trade fairs.
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