The Federal Government has pledged a renewed commitment to improve on the quality of products manufactured locally in a bid to grow Nigeria export capacity.
Speaking in Abuja, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite said it is important to prioritize the production, processing and packaging of locally manufactured non-oil export goods for Nigeria’s economic growth and sustainable development.
According to her, “there is a need to initiate practicable economic programs and implement trade policies that will help address issues like job and wealth creation, inclusiveness, and most importantly, policies that would stimulate the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), as critical contributors to the national economy.
“The Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment has over the years, worked closely with Parastatals under its supervision to engender trade and facilitate industrialization.
“Only last year, under the Technical Committee on Export Rejects, the Ministry working with the NEPC and other relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of Government, made valuable recommendations to the Government on how to end the rejection of Nigeria’s products in the international market. This has led to a reasonable reduction in the amount of product rejected from our export baskets.
“This development will not only preserve Nigeria’s reputation as a reliable trading partner but also increase the confidence of international buyers in Nigerian products”.
Anite explained that “it is pertinent to note that the Domestic Export Warehouse (DEW) Project initiated by the NEPC in collaboration with other MDAs is a strategic intervention towards curbing supply-side constraints.
“The DEW is a one-stop facility for the storage of products, packaging, and labeling, preshipment inspection, and fumigation of goods in preparation for transportation to the Ports.
“This project is particularly dear to my Ministry because it is designed to assist exporters in conducting their pre-export operations within a facility to ease logistics challenges associated with congestions in our various ports” .
She said the DEW Project, “with its streamlined processes and efficient logistics solutions, exemplifies the innovative spirit of our government in improving our export sector and making Nigerian products more competitive in international markets” the Minister stated.
Anite noted that, the exportation of goods and services is paramount to helping Nigeria resolve its current forex challenges, stimulate the economy, boost entrepreneurship and create employment opportunities.
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