The Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) has announced that, starting August 29, 2025, all shipments from Nigeria to the United States—except letters and documents—will attract a mandatory prepaid customs duty of $80 or its naira equivalent. This new policy, known as the NIPOST $80 customs duty, is expected to affect thousands of Nigerians who send goods abroad.
According to NIPOST, the charges stem from an Executive Order by the U.S. Government suspending de minimis exemptions for small packages worldwide. The order, enacted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), eliminates duty-free treatment for parcels valued at or under $800.
“This Executive Order applies to all postal operators and administrations globally, not just Nigeria,” NIPOST explained, noting that all incoming shipments to the U.S. will now face this flat customs duty.
Industry observers warn that the NIPOST $80 customs duty could significantly impact small businesses, logistics providers, and families who frequently ship items abroad. Global logistics operators, including airlines and cargo carriers, are already tightening procedures for U.S.-bound packages, which may lead to higher shipping costs and delivery delays.
NIPOST assured customers that it is engaging international stakeholders, including the Universal Postal Union and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, to minimize disruptions.
This move follows similar actions reported by The PUNCH, which highlighted concerns over rising costs for exporters and importers worldwide.
For Nigeria, the development underscores the urgent need to strengthen local manufacturing and logistics infrastructure. As Property Media Week earlier reported, investing in the logistics sector could reduce dependency on imports and shield businesses from sudden global regulatory changes.
NIPOST concluded by reaffirming its commitment: “We remain dedicated to providing reliable, safe, and efficient postal and courier services despite this global regulatory adjustment.”
