Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria have raised concerns over a newly imposed $80 postal duty on shipments to the United States, warning that the extra charge could hurt their ability to trade internationally and threaten business growth.
The duty, introduced by the U.S. Postal Service in collaboration with international shipping partners, applies to all parcels sent from Nigeria to the U.S., regardless of size or weight. While the policy aims to standardize shipping processes and enhance security, many Nigerian business owners describe the fee as excessive and a potential barrier to cross-border commerce.
For sectors like fashion, technology, and artisanal goods, the U.S. represents a major export market. Nigerian entrepreneurs have increasingly leveraged e-commerce platforms, including Jumia, Konga, eBay, and Etsy, to reach international buyers. However, the new $80 charge threatens to disrupt these operations and make Nigerian products less competitive abroad.
“We already face high shipping costs, and adding $80 makes it nearly impossible to remain competitive,” said Ngozi Okoro, a Lagos-based fashion designer. “Our U.S. customers expect reasonable shipping rates, and this fee could force us to raise prices or lose clients.”
Similarly, Adebayo Olajide, a jewelry exporter in Ibadan, noted, “International shipping is already expensive. This additional cost could make it impractical for us to continue exporting to the U.S.”
The financial burden is particularly heavy for small businesses operating on tight margins. Industry groups such as the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) are urging the government to intervene. They want Nigerian authorities to negotiate with U.S. counterparts to reduce or reconsider the fee, ensuring SMEs remain competitive despite inflation, currency fluctuations, and limited access to financing.
Some businesses are exploring alternative logistics solutions, including freight forwarders and regional distribution hubs, to mitigate the impact of the new duty. Others call for innovation in shipping strategies to keep costs manageable.
Despite these challenges, Nigerian entrepreneurs remain hopeful. “It’s a difficult time, but SMEs are resilient,” Okoro said. “We need support from both government and international partners to keep our businesses thriving in global markets.”
