SALS Seeks Mild Customs Duties For Manufacturer

The Shippers Association Lagos State (SALS) has said it would advocate for more duty Waiver from the Federal Government to be given to manufacturing industries.

The assertion was made by the president of the association, Rev. Jonathan Nicole at the inaugural edition of the Shippers’ Day in Lagos.

Nicol said the call for the waiver will enable manufacturing firms to overcome their heavy financial burden which according to him, is taking its toll on the final consumers of goods in the country.

He added that the association would vigorously pursue exportation of agro-allied products as well as encourage local manufacturing industries.

In his words, “Imports will continue to come but agriculture and exportation of agro-allied products would be promoted.”

Expressing the support of the association towards the construction of cottage refineries and sales of by-products, Nicole stated “We (shippers) support the revamping and construction of cottage refineries and for the by-products to be exported.

“Clearance of cargo will be more scientific and cost effective,’’ Nicol said.

According to him, industries should be able to overcome their heavy financial burden, in clearing their raw materials.

He recalled that the association was formed over nine years ago, primarily to protect the interest of shippers, protect their investments and act as a pressure group.

“The Nigerian Shippers’ Council after noticing the efforts of the Shippers, made available a space on the 10th floor of the Shippers’ Plaza to work together as one of its primary partners.

“We therefore solicit for a bigger, more spacious and befitting secretariat.

“It is our belief that in a few years’ time, we will achieve an enviable status as problem of members would have been solved at least 90 per cent when the New Port Order comes into manifestation.

“Industries will overcome their heavy financial burden in clearing their raw materials,’’ he stated.