MAN Laments Cost Of Clearing Goods, Double Taxation

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has called for the harmonisation of taxes in the country to boost investment drive and economic development.

It also urged governments at all levels to guide against what it described as the arbitrary appointment of consultants in its tax drive.

The association spoke through its Chairman, Samuel Kolawole, at its 37th Annual General Meeting on Wednesday.

Kolawole lamented the inability of the government to harmonise the various taxes, saying this was a serious burden to manufacturers.

He said, “The major challenge faced by manufacturers across the zone and Oyo particularly where the largest membership is based is the inability of the government to harmonise its taxes.

“Our association has continued to advocate for favourable policies from the state governments towards ensuring ease of doing business in the region.

“There is no doubt that year 2019 came with a lot of challenges. However, we weathered the storms to remain in business thereby contributing our quota to the economic development of the states as well as our country.

“We deserve commendation for our resilience in the midst of difficult operating environment.”

He added, “From recession to border closure, to COVID-19 pandemic, you have remained afloat. It is this doggedness that keeps the nation above water.

“In the year 2019 under review, the manufacturing sector faced a lot of challenges both internally and externally.

“The high cost of clearing goods at the ports, the delays turned demurrage fees, gridlock and lack of basic amenities, double taxation, levies and charges have all made the cost of production skyrocket and sadly, the consumers are also paying for it.”

He added that the contribution of the manufacturing sector to the nation’s real Gross Domestic Product in quarter four of 2019 was 8.74 per cent as recorded in the preceding quarter.