The United States Trade Representative has berated Nigeria for imposing an import ban on 25 different product categories, which is impacting American exporters.
Coming at a time tensions are rising over the sweeping tariffs imposed on several countries by the U.S., the trade body described the import ban by Nigeria as one of the 10 unfair trade practices perpetrated against the U.S. by different nations.
The USTR said import restrictions placed on items like beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and spirits limit U.S. market access and reduce export opportunities.
“Nigeria’s import ban on 25 different product categories impacts U.S. exporters, particularly in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods,
“These policies create significant trade barriers that lead to lost revenue for U.S. businesses looking to expand in the Nigerian market,” the USTR stated in a post on X highlighting what it described as unfair trade practices against the U.S.
Nigeria is not alone in facing criticism from Washington. The USTR’s post also named India, Thailand, Kenya, Angola, Algeria, and the European Union for various trade restrictions that collectively impact billions of dollars in potential U.S. exports.
The USTR slammed China in particular for mass-producing American flags, thus causing losses for American manufacturers.
“Over 100,000 Chinese-made American flags are sold every month on just one e-commerce platform alone, resulting in $2 million in lost sales for American manufacturers, which ultimately leads to lost job opportunities and business closures.
“American flags should be Made in America!” it stated.
The USTR said India also banned imports of U.S. ethanol for fuel use, similar to what Thailand did by restricting imports of fuel ethanol, requiring approval and issuance permit.,
According to the U.S. trade organization, securing market access to India and Thailand for exports of U.S. fuel ethanol would result in at least an additional $414 million in annual export value.
The USTR’s exposé on the unfair trade practices against the U.S. comes amid the global trade tensions sparked by the U.S. imposition of reciprocal tariffs on countries.