US–Iran conflict: MAN lists urgent steps to shield Nigerian manufacturers
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria has warned that the escalating US–Iran conflict and wider Middle East tensions could severely disrupt Nigeria’s manufacturing sector through higher energy costs, shipping delays and imported‑input inflation. MAN says the shock comes just as inflation and capacity utilisation were beginning to improve, raising fears that recent macroeconomic gains could be reversed. To cushion the blow, MAN is urging the Federal Government to prioritise access to foreign exchange for manufacturers importing critical raw materials and spare parts. The association also wants domestic refineries compelled to allocate sufficient fuel and diesel to local industries at predictable prices to reduce exposure to volatile global markets. On logistics, MAN has called for an immediate six‑month suspension of multiple haulage levies, discretionary highway taxes and transit tolls that have made product distribution more expensive nationwide. It further recommends fast‑tracking energy […]