FG begins green tax collection on imported vehicles: What you need to know
By Aboki Forex —
The Federal Government has started implementing a Green Tax Surcharge on selected imported vehicles. The tax took effect on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is collecting the levy. It is part of the 2026 Fiscal Policy Measures aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation.
Here are the key details every Nigerian should know.
Which vehicles are affected
The surcharge applies only to imported vehicles with larger engine capacities. Vehicles with engines between 2,000cc and 3,999cc will pay a 2% Green Tax. Vehicles with engines of 4,000cc and above will pay a 4% surcharge.
The policy is designed to discourage the importation of high-emission vehicles.
Which vehicles are exempt
Electric vehicles, mass transit buses, and locally manufactured vehicles are exempt from the new levy.
How the tax is collected
The Nigeria Customs Service said the surcharge will be assessed separately from existing duties. Importers must submit a different HS Code Declaration in the Customs system. This ensures transparency and uniform implementation across all commands.
Ahead of the rollout, Customs carried out nationwide sensitisation programmes for customs agents, freight forwarders, importers, and other stakeholders. The aim was to ensure understanding and compliance with the new requirements.
The Green Tax Surcharge is one of Nigeria's most significant environmental tax reforms in recent years.