The British High Commission, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, has held a one-day workshop in Kano to unlock new trade opportunities under the United Kingdom’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS).
The workshop brought together major stakeholders in Nigeria’s agricultural export sector to discuss how the DCTS can improve market access and increase profitability for local producers.
The UK Head of Trade Policy for Nigeria, Mujina Kaindama, while delivering her opening remarks, said trade remains a key driver for economic growth and development. She explained that the DCTS offers reduced or zero tariffs on exports, helping Nigerian businesses compete more effectively in the global market.
According to her, “The DCTS, launched in 2023, provides several benefits, including reduced or zero tariffs on nearly 3,000 products, simplified rules of origin for easier compliance, and fewer conditions for improved market access.” She emphasized that the initiative supports sustainable trade relationships and encourages export diversification.
Dr Adiyas Ode, the Country Director of PROPCOM+, highlighted that the project plays a vital role in supporting local farmers through improved seed distribution, technical training, and value chain development. She said these efforts are designed to boost productivity and promote the processing of raw commodities into high-quality export products. She urged Nigerian exporters to “seize the opportunities offered by the DCTS to expand their market reach and strengthen Nigeria’s presence in international trade.”
Aminu Nura Abba, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, represented by the Director of Investment Promotion, Orji Gertrude, stated that the United Kingdom is the third-largest investor in Nigeria, while Nigeria is the second-largest destination for UK investments in Africa. She noted that the DCTS will further enhance bilateral trade and deepen economic cooperation between both nations.
Naziru Halliru, the Director-General of the Kano State Investment Promotion Agency (KanInvest), commended the UK government for hosting the event in Kano. He said agriculture remains a top priority for the state and emphasized that “Kano, home to the largest grains market in Africa, remains open to new investment and trade opportunities that can drive growth at both local and national levels.”