OPS rejects SSB tax hike, cites threat to jobs, investments

By Merit Ibe
 
Nigeria’s organised private sector (OPS) has urged the federal government to adopt a balanced, evidence-based and coordinated approach to excise taxation, warning that plans to increase taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) could threaten jobs, investment and industrial growth.
Speaking on behalf of the non-alcoholic drinks sector, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) expressed concern over the Customs and Excise Tariff (Consolidation) Act Amendment Bill 2025, which proposes replacing the current excise duty of N10 per litre on SSBs with a percentage levy based on retail prices.
MAN said while the sector supports government efforts to boost revenue a...