Dangote Explains Why Cement Costs Less Abroad Than In Nigeria

Dangote explained that cement produced for export is significantly cheaper because it is exempt from several levies that apply to domestic sales. He noted that multiple taxes, fees, and compliance requirements within Nigeria accumulate to raise production costs, which are ultimately transferred to consumers.

The industrialist stated that exporting cement allows his company to avoid a range of statutory charges, including corporate income tax, education and health levies, value-added tax, and withholding tax, all of which substantially inflate the price of cement sold locally. He added that these savings make it possible for Nigerian cement to compete favourably in the international market against producers from countries such as Turkey, Russia, and China.

Dangote emphasized that while his company remains committed to local manufacturing, the current tax structure places domestic producers at a disadvantage. He reiterated his long-standing position that easing regulatory and fiscal pressures on manufacturers would support industrial growth and strengthen Nigeria’s drive toward economic self-sufficiency.