The United States Trade Representative (USTR), a government agency in the U.S., has criticized Nigeria for enacting an import ban on 25 product categories. The USTR expressed concerns that these restrictions are detrimental to U.S.
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exporters and strain trade relations. In a message posted on X, the USTR included Nigeria's import policies in a list of the top 10 unfair trade practices perpetrated by foreign governments. The USTR contended that these restrictions prevent U.S. companies from accessing a growing consumer market in Africa's largest economy. The post specifically noted, "Nigeria's import ban on 25 different product categories negatively affects U.S. exporters, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods." Restrictions on products like beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medications, and spirits limit market access for the U.S. and reduce export opportunities. These policies create significant trade barriers, resulting in lost revenue for U.S. businesses aspiring to grow in the Nigerian market. Additional countries under U.S. scrutiny include India, Thailand, Kenya, Angola, Algeria, and the European Union, all identified by the U.S. agency for establishing trade barriers that together hinder billions of dollars in U.S. exports. India was specifically singled out for its ban on U.S. ethanol imports, while Kenya's 50% tariff on American corn and the EU's new environmental regulations were noted as measures that disadvantage U.S. producers. In Africa, Angola has also faced criticism from Washington for its announcement to limit import licenses for poultry and meat products starting in July 2025. Algeria's restrictions on generic pharmaceutical products and medical devices present significant challenges for U.S. exporters. The USTR highlighted that Angola is currently the largest African market for U.S. poultry and warned that the upcoming restrictions could lead to considerable economic repercussions. Part of the statement noted, "In 2024, U.S. poultry exports to Angola were valued at $136 million. Angola ranks as the 9th largest global market for U.S. poultry exports and the largest in Africa. These new trade restrictions will have a substantial impact on American farmers and ranchers." In a related context, former President Donald Trump had threatened to impose new tariffs of 50% on Chinese imports, escalating trade tensions while a significant selloff in global markets was underway. Last week, Trump's sweeping tariffs raised fears of an international recession and prompted criticism even from members of his own Republican Party. He admonished China for not adhering to his "warning against retaliating.