Nigeria US tariffs increase to 15% under Trump’s new reciprocal trade policy targeting over 60 nations with country-specific rates

Nigeria US tariffs have jumped to 15 percent under a sweeping new reciprocal trade policy rolled out by former President Donald Trump, who is pushing a more protectionist agenda ahead of the 2025 U.S. elections.

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According to a policy brief released on the White House website, Nigeria is among more than 60 countries now facing individualised tariffs on exports to the United States.

The policy introduces a 10% baseline tariff on all imports, with extra levies imposed based on the exporting country’s trade practices and product types.

Countries such as Brazil and China are hit with even steeper penalties—50% and 30% respectively—while Nigeria, India (25%), South Africa (30%), and several African and Asian nations face double-digit duties.

Other countries in the 15% bracket alongside Nigeria include Ghana, Cameroon, Botswana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Papua New Guinea.

In Africa alone, more than 20 nations are affected, drawing criticism from trade experts who warn the policy could worsen global supply chain disruptions and strain diplomatic relations.

“This tariff hike is not just about trade. It’s a diplomatic signal and an economic gamble,” said one international trade analyst.

The Trump administration argues the policy is designed to level the playing field, punishing countries that maintain higher tariffs or trade barriers against U.S. goods.

The move is part of a broader plan to reassert American industrial power, protect domestic jobs, and push for “fair and balanced” trade.

While some allies like Canada and the UK have been granted partial exemptions, others face stiff duties across key sectors like energy, agriculture, and manufacturing.

“The tariff programme introduces flexibility by allowing us to fine-tune rates per country and product. This is reciprocity in action,” the White House stated.

For Nigeria, the 15% US tariff could impact exports in agriculture, oil by-products, and manufactured goods.

The timing is particularly sensitive as the country grapples with foreign exchange constraints, inflationary pressures, and efforts to attract foreign investment.

Trade watchers believe the hike could discourage Nigerian exports to the US, push businesses to seek alternative markets, or increase consumer costs for U.S.-bound goods.

“Nigeria must strengthen trade diplomacy and diversify export destinations,” said a senior economist from the Lagos Chamber of Commerce.

Here’s a snapshot of country-specific tariff rates under the new programme: