The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigerian exporters through the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), which offers tariff reductions and simplified trade rules to boost market access.
Under the scheme, more than 3,000 Nigerian products, including ginger, cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, soya beans, and textiles, are set to benefit from enhanced entry into the UK market.
The move was designed to stimulate non-oil exports and strengthen bilateral trade between both nations.
According to a statement signed by the British High commission, The announcement was made during the UK–Nigeria Economic Diversification Dialogue, held in Lagos as part of ongoing engagements under the UK–Nigeria Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP).
The dialogue followed a nationwide DCTS Roadshow in Kano and Lagos, organised to raise awareness among Nigerian exporters about the benefits and requirements of the scheme.
Speaking at the event, Jonny Baxter, British Deputy High Commissioner, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening trade ties with Nigeria, noting that bilateral trade between both countries stood at £7.9 billion in the 12 months ending March 2025.
He said the DCTS, launched in 2023, provides generous tariff reductions and simplified trade rules for developing countries, opening new opportunities for Nigerian exporters in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and textiles.
“Today’s dialogue marks a significant milestone in the UK-Nigeria partnership. It reflects our shared commitment to driving inclusive, sustainable economic growth through strategic exports diversification.
“By working together, government to government and with the private sector through our market development programmes like Propcom+, we are unlocking new opportunities for trade, investment, and innovation across key sectors.
“The UK remains a steadfast partner in supporting Nigeria’s ambition to stimulate economic growth. Through initiatives such as the Developing Countries Trade Scheme (DCTS) and our joint efforts with the Federal Ministry of Industry Trade and Investment (FMITI), on standards and export readiness, we are laying the foundation for long-term prosperity that benefits both our nations,” Baxter said.
Under the DCTS, products such as ginger, cocoa, sesame seeds, cashew nuts, soya beans, leather, and textiles are among those to benefit from the UK’s tariff relief. The programme also simplifies trade documentation and rules of origin to make market entry easier for small and medium-scale exporters.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of FMITI, Orji Gertrude, Director of Trade and Investment, commended the UK government’s support, describing the scheme as timely and transformative in Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its export base beyond oil.
“To fully harness these benefits, stakeholders must understand the rules of origin, documentation requirements, product standards, and trade facilitation measures under the scheme.
“Through partnerships like this with the UK’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT), we aim to reduce trade barriers, improve competitiveness, and ensure Nigerian products meet international standards,” she said
According to the statement, the dialogue also explored strategies for leveraging the DCTS to boost private sector participation, attract investment in value-added processing, and strengthen Nigeria’s participation in global value chains.
Source: Business Day
