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By Chinenye Anuforo
The Norwegian Seafood Council has urged the Federal Government (FG) to expedite the approval of zero-percent import duty on stockfish. This move, according to the Council, is crucial to ensuring that this affordable protein source becomes more accessible to Nigerian households, particularly children.
Speaking during a visit to Otto foodstuff market Abiodun Cheke, Consultant for the Norwegian Seafood Council in Nigeria, emphasised the importance of this initiative: “By reducing import duties, we can significantly lower prices, making it more accessible to the average Nigerian. This will help combat protein deficiency, especially among children, and prevent malnutrition-related diseases like kwashiorkor.”
She said the Norwegian Seafood Council has been actively working to improve Nigeria’s fisheries sector through various initiatives, including organizing periodic training sessions on quality assurance and sustainable fishing practices to enhance the quality of Nigerian aquaculture products. Collaborating with the Norwegian government to facilitate market access for Nigerian aquaculture products, particularly tilapia, in international markets and conducting workshops and seminars for importers, distributors, and retailers to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and promote sustainable practices.
Cheke expressed optimism regarding the government’s response to their appeal. “We are hopeful that the Federal Government will recognise the importance of this initiative and grant stockfish zero percent duty status. This will not only benefit the Nigerian people but also strengthen the economic ties between Nigeria and Norway.”
Also, Mr. Svein Baera, the Norwegian Ambassador to Nigeria, expressed admiration for the popularity of Norwegian stockfish in the Nigerian market. Despite the long distance, the product’s freshness and durability have made it a staple in many Nigerian households.
However, the Ambassador acknowledged the challenge of affordability due to exchange rate fluctuations. To address this issue, Norway has proposed that stockfish be added to Nigeria’s list of duty-free products. This measure, if implemented, would significantly reduce the cost of the product and make it more accessible to Nigerian families.
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“We believe that stockfish is an essential protein source for many Nigerian families. By making it more affordable, we can contribute to the nutritional well-being of the population”, said Svein.
While the Ambassador did not provide specific details on additional strategies to boost the popularity of stockfish, he emphasised the importance of affordability. By reducing costs and ensuring wider availability, Norway aims to further solidify the position of stockfish in the Nigerian market.
Collaborating, Christian Chramer, CEO of the Norwegian Seafood Council, also expressed his delight at the growing popularity of Norwegian seafood in Nigeria. Chramer observed firsthand the demand for quality seafood products and the positive interactions between importers, sellers, and consumers.
“It’s fantastic to see our products so close to the Nigerian consumer,” Chramer said. “The love and appreciation for our fish are truly heartwarming.”
While recognising the challenges posed by fluctuating exchange rates and global market dynamics, Chramer emphasised the Council’s commitment to supplying Nigeria with high-quality seafood.
“We understand the importance of affordability,” he acknowledged. “However, factors such as weather conditions and global demand can influence pricing and availability. Nevertheless, we remain dedicated to providing Nigerian consumers with as much seafood as possible.”
Looking ahead, Chramer expressed optimism about the future of Norwegian codfish in the Nigerian market. “Codfish holds a special place in the hearts of Nigerians, and we are committed to ensuring its continued availability,” he stated.
