Importers and exporters operating at the Eastern ports of Nigeria have voiced their concerns over an alleged 200% increase in haulage rates by the Nigeria Shippers Council (NSC), citing potential inflationary effects.
During a press conference held in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, representatives of the operators warned of a possible operational shutdown and issued a seven-day ultimatum, demanding that the NSC revert to the previous rates.
Mr. Joshua Ahuama, Zonal Coordinator of the Association of Nigerian Customs Licensed Agents (ANLCA), addressed the media on behalf of the group, emphasizing the necessity of rejecting the new rates as they contradicted the provisions of the NSC act.
Ahuama stressed the importance of stakeholder consultation, noting that such engagement is mandated by the agency’s Act. He highlighted the discontent among importers, freight forwarders, and other stakeholders in the Eastern zone regarding the steep rate hike, deeming it unreasonable and unacceptable.
The group expressed their commitment to pursuing peaceful resolutions, calling on the NSC to engage in proper negotiation to establish rates that are fair to all parties involved in the maritime value chain.
Furthermore, they urged the NSC to suspend the implementation of the increased rates pending further negotiations to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders.
Emphasizing the broader implications of the rate hike, Ahuama highlighted its potential impact on consumer prices, as increased haulage costs would likely be passed on to end consumers. He underscored the group’s stance as being in the best interest of Nigerians, aiming to prevent inflationary pressures in the market.
However, the group warned that if their demands are not met, they may resort to drastic measures, including the suspension of all declaration of goods and payment of customs duties, actions that could have adverse effects on national revenue and economic output.
Representatives from various import and export associations, including the Nigeria Shippers Association and the Aba International Traders Association, were present at the meeting, demonstrating widespread concern within the industry.
