The Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative highlights the disincentivizing impact of numerous export charges on Nigeria’s cargo potential.
The 14-point communiqué, issued after its Q3, 2023 Breakfast Business Meeting themed “Nigerian Aviation Sector Charges, Duties And Tariffs: Truly Exorbitant?” officially recognizes only nine of the 25 charges.
This emphasizes the urgent need for reform to foster a business-friendly environment.
ASRTI insists on removing obstacles to air cargo movement by thoroughly reviewing existing charges, tariffs, and fees at cargo sheds.
The think-tank advocates total automation of cargo revenue collection systems to eliminate unknown and illegal charges from the process.
ASRTI urges the government to assess and streamline the agencies involved in air cargo processing. This ensures agencies like NAFDAC and SON only intervene when necessary, promoting an efficient, automated system.
The initiative proposes empowering individuals to conduct their own export/import processes at airports. Also they encouraged individuals to use officially recognized and trained registered cargo agents where necessary.
ASRTI further emphasizes the importance of improving the export acceptance process.
Regarding the recognized nine of 25 charges, ASRTI calls for a government investigation and action to prevent private gains at the expense of Nigerian competitiveness in exports.
ASRTI further advocates for an immediate Executive Order to eliminate charges hindering Nigerian exports. This will be followed by the enactment of new laws for sustained reform.
The event had Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Reforms and Tax Policies, Prof. Abiola Sanni (SAN). Dr. Gbenga Olowo, President, Sabre West Africa; Prof. M. T. Abdulrazaq, Expert in Tax Regulatory Services; Ademola Onitiju, President, ASRTI.
