A maritime research group under the auspices of the Sea Empowerment and Research Centre has stated that the proposed increase in customs agent licence fees would adversely affect small and medium-sized enterprises.

This came as the group maintained that such an increase would be detrimental to the customs brokerage industry and the economy as a whole, stressing that the move should be halted.

The Head of Research at SEREC, Mr Eugene Nweke, disclosed this in a statement obtained by Sunday PUNCH on Saturday.

Recall that The PUNCH earlier reported that maritime stakeholders had expressed concerns over a possible hike in the licensing renewal fee for customs agents, citing fears that it may fuel inflation.

According to a recent report, the Nigeria Customs Service had announced plans to review the licensing renewal fees for licensed customs agents, with a new structure set to take effect from January 2026.

Commenting on the development, SEREC recommends that licensing fees be set at a level that strikes a balance between the need for regulatory oversight and the need to promote competition and efficiency in the customs clearance process.

The group added that a tiered fee structure based on the type of service or level of license would be more suitable.

?We are concerned that the proposed increase would disproportionately affect small and medium-sized enterprises, which may struggle to absorb the increased costs. We believe that the proposed increase could lead to increased costs for traders, negatively impacting trade facilitation and economic growth,? SEREC stated.

The group added that they are supporting the implementation of a tiered licensing system, ?with different levels of licenses based on factors such as experience and specialization. This would promote professionalism and efficiency in the customs clearance process.?

According to SEREC, licensing requirements should focus on demonstrating competence in customs procedures, tariff classification, valuation, and origin determination.

SEREC reiterated its support for license holders to undergo ongoing training and professional development to maintain their licenses.

?We recommend that the NCS consider a more balanced and nuanced approach to licensing reform, taking into account the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises and the industry as a whole,? SEREC stated.

He urged the service to a tiered licensing system with different levels of licenses based on experience and specialisation. SEREC advised the service to focus on demonstrating competence in customs procedures and regulations.

?Require license holders to undergo ongoing training and professional development. Implement a fee structure that is balanced and takes into account the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises. (Sunday PUNCH)

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