The “Harmonized System (HS)” was created and is administered by the Brussels-based World Customs Organization (WCO). It consists of numerical codes that allow the systematic definition and classification of all goods in international trade, within the tariffs of signatory countries.
The purpose of the HS Tariff is to facilitate internationally uniform tariff classification of all goods. The codes are used to classify and define goods traded internationally to determine rate of duty, eligibility for exemptions, qualification for approved manufacturer/assembler tariff provisions and calculation of any other additional taxes (e.g. excise).
With regards to SONCAP program, they ensure consistency between the SON System and the Nigeria Customs System via the Nigeria Single Window for Trade.
Importers need to declare the HS Code of their products at the Form M stage, which is prior to SONCAP certification. The purpose of this declaration is to ensure that the products they have declared match what is being imported and certified.
The HS Code will also appear on Product Certificates (PCR and PCL) as well as the SONCAP Certificate.
If you are not sure about the HS Code of your products you may refer to the Nigeria Customs Service website where you can find the Nigeria CET Tariff Section and Chapters and/or the complete list of Nigeria CET Code.
If you want to know more, please don’t hesitate to contact us.