Nigeria has recorded a sharp rise in petrol importation activity with approximately 194 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) entering various ports within a four-day window following the Federal Government’s decision to delay the implementation of the proposed 15 per cent ad-valorem duty on fuel imports.
Data sourced from port traffic records for the period between Friday, November 21, and Tuesday, November 25, 2025, shows that fuel-laden vessels discharged a combined 149,500 metric tonnes of PMS across the country’s major terminals.
Market operators say the sudden uptick reflects importers’ efforts to take advantage of the temporary duty-free window before the tariff takes effect in the first quarter of next year.
Industry executives note that the deferment of the duty has eased the immediate cost pressure on importers, prompting higher booking volumes and increased vessel movements.
The proposed duty, once enforced, will apply to the cost, insurance and freight value of imported petrol and diesel, raising final landing costs and narrowing the margin between imported products and locally refined fuel.
Port-traffic updates indicate that Tincan Island Port handled the largest share of arrivals, with multiple vessels discharging at different terminals in quick succession.
Calabar and Warri ports also recorded sizeable inflows, highlighting a widespread elevation in downstream logistics activity across the coastal supply chain.
Shipping agents confirmed that terminals in Lagos received a mix of medium-range and lightering vessels carrying thousands of metric tonnes per call, while facilities in the eastern and mid-western corridors processed significant consignments through established depot operators.
The coordinated arrivals underscore importers’ drive to build volumes ahead of year-end demand and regulatory changes.
Downstream analysts say the surge comes at a time of shifting market dynamics, following the recent adjustment in ex-depot pricing by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
The refinery’s decision to reduce its gantry price has affected pricing models for both major and independent marketers, altering competitive behaviour and influencing short-term import decisions.
Although the duty suspension has encouraged additional inflows, operators warn that supply patterns may shift once the tariff is implemented in 2026.
Higher import costs are expected to favour domestically refined products and reduce the viability of large-scale international purchasing by marketers.
With fresh consignments scheduled to arrive through Monday and Tuesday, stakeholders expect the temporary boost in supply to stabilise distribution channels across several regions.
However, the broader trajectory of fuel imports will depend on pricing, regulatory clarity, and the pace of local refinery output in the coming months.