The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has collaborated with the World Customs Organisation and the Nigerian Energy Support Group to enhance trade facilitation through an advanced ruling system. At a sensitisation event in Lagos, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, represented by Zone A Coordinator Saidu Yusuf, highlighted that this system will streamline trade operations in Nigeria.
Adeniyi explained that the advanced ruling platform allows importers or their agents to seek clarifications on the classification, valuation, origin, and status of consignments. This system will determine if the products are covered by end-user certificates or fall under any restrictions, such as the specific requirements for importing fish.
He stressed that the advanced ruling system will provide critical information on import regulations and urged officers to comply with the engagement rules. Section 24 of the Customs and Excise Management Act authorizes officers to block the importation of harmful goods, and the new platform supports this mandate by requiring importers to declare the status of their items.
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The system enables officers to query the classification, type, origin, and valuation of consignments in advance, and a certificate will be issued to the consignee for a moderate fee. Adeniyi emphasized that this initiative will curb the illegal importation of firearms and substandard goods.
“These guidelines align with the tools of the World Customs Organisation and the World Trade Organisation. Once fully operational, the system will ensure transparency and compliance with international standards,” Adeniyi stated, underscoring the importance of the advanced ruling system in harmonizing trade processes in Nigeria.
