The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has urged Federal Government to reduce automotive levy on imported brand new vehicles from 35 per cent to 10 per cent.TVC News Correspondent, Lara Afolayan reports that the Nigerian government introduced a 35% levy for brand new cars imported into the country. This is alongside an existing thirty-five percent import duty.
It is to help grow local automobile production and discourage car import. But the customs said the policy has been counterproductive and has rather pushed up smuggling. It now wants the levy slashed to ten percent so the cars can be brought in through normal routes and then government can make more revenue.
The customs is also worried about incessant attacks on its men by smugglers.
The meeting is primarily to mark the International Customs Day, which is themed smart border for seamless trade, travel and transport. The World Customs Organisation now advises Nigeria to improve on border technology.
Customs officers who have distinguished themselves in the line of duty, now get recognition certificates in the spirit of the International Customs Day Celebration
