FG Halts Implementation Of Expatriate Employment Levy

FG Halts Implementation Of Expatriate Employment Levy

In a significant development, the federal government has decided to suspend the imposition of the $10,000 and $15,000 expatriate levy on employers, marking a notable shift in policy…..READ ALSO We Are Preparing To Announce New Minimum Wage – FG

This decision was conveyed through a statement signed by Dele Kelvin Oye, the National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), on March 8th.

Oye disclosed, “The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, in collaboration with key stakeholders, announces a temporary suspension of the recently introduced Expatriate Employment Levy by the Federal Ministry of Interior, as administered by the Nigerian Immigration Service.”

The resolution to suspend the levy came after a successful Trade and Investment outreach led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Qatar, followed by a constructive meeting with the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Aniete, and the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

This decision follows the recent launch of the Expatriates Employment Levy (EEL) Handbook by the federal government on February 27, 2024. The levy, aimed at employers of expatriate workers in Nigeria, imposes charges of $10,000 for expatriate workers and $15,000 for directors.

However, the implementation of the levy faced widespread criticism from private sector entities, prompting a reassessment by authorities.

The temporary suspension of the levy underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive business environment and attracting foreign investment, crucial for economic stability.

NACCIMA, in collaboration with other stakeholders, has emphasized the need for further consultations and the formation of a review committee to address concerns surrounding the levy’s impact.

The association urged investors to maintain confidence in Nigeria’s business landscape, assuring them of the government’s dedication to supporting economic growth through conducive policies.

This decision reflects a strategic pivot by the government in response to stakeholders’ feedback, highlighting the importance of dialogue and collaboration in shaping economic policies.