How to Import from Canada to Nigeria: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction (SEO-Friendly Opening)

Importing goods from Canada to Nigeria is becoming increasingly popular among Nigerian entrepreneurs, wholesalers, and distributors.

Canada is known for high-quality manufacturing, strict regulatory standards, and reliable exporters. Nigeria, with its large consumer market and strong import demand, provides excellent business opportunities.

This guide explains how to import from Canada to Nigeria—covering documentation, shipping, customs clearance, costs, and compliance.

Why Import from Canada to Nigeria?

Canadian products are globally trusted. Nigerian importers benefit from:

Access to certified products
Stable supplier networks
Competitive pricing
Long-term trade reliability

Popular imports include:

Wheat and pulses
Packaged foods
Pharmaceuticals
Industrial machinery
Electronics
Construction materials

Step 1 – Research the Nigerian Market

Before importing, study demand and regulations.

Main entry points:

Lagos Ports
Port Harcourt
Onne

Analyze:

Market prices
Competitor products
Import restrictions
Customs tariffs

Step 2 – Register as an Importer

To import legally in Nigeria, you need:

CAC registration
Tax Identification Number (TIN)
Nigeria Customs registration
Form M through your bank

Form M must be opened before shipment.

Step 3 – Find Verified Canadian Suppliers

Reliable suppliers reduce risk.

Find exporters via:

Trade fairs
Export agencies
Verified B2B platforms
Industry associations

Verify:

Business registration
Export history
Certifications
Product samples

Never rely on unverified sellers.

Step 4 – Negotiate Prices and Incoterms

Agree on:

Unit price
MOQ
Packaging
Payment terms
Delivery timeline

Recommended Incoterms:

CIF (Beginner-friendly)
FOB (For experienced importers)
EXW (Advanced traders)

CIF is safest for new importers.

Step 5 – Shipping from Canada to Nigeria

Sea Freight (Most Used)

25–40 days
Cheapest for bulk cargo

Air Freight

3–7 days
Higher cost
For urgent cargo

Use a licensed freight forwarder for best results.

Step 6 – Prepare Import Documents

Required documents:

Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Bill of Lading
Certificate of Origin
Insurance Certificate
Form M
PAAR

Additional approvals:

SONCAP (electronics, machinery)
NAFDAC (food, drugs)
Phytosanitary (agriculture)

Step 7 – Customs Clearance in Nigeria

Process:

Submit documents
Pay duties and VAT
Physical inspection
Cargo release

Main charges:

Import duty
VAT (7.5%)
Port fees
Clearing agent fees

Licensed agents speed up clearance.

Step 8 – Local Distribution

After clearance:

Transport to the warehouse
Distribute to retailers
Partner with distributors

Use proper storage for sensitive products.

Step 9 – Payment and Currency Management

Common payment methods:

Bank wire (SWIFT)
Letters of Credit
Escrow services

Tips:

Trade in USD/CAD
Keep payment records
Use regulated banks

Avoid informal channels.

Step 10 – Regulatory Compliance

You may need:

Product registration
Quality certification
Proper labeling
Import permits

Non-compliance may lead to seizure or penalties.

FAQs

How long does shipping take?
25–40 days (sea), 3–7 days (air).

Is Form M required?
Yes, for most imports.

Do small businesses qualify?
Yes, many exporters accept trial orders.

Conclusion

Importing from Canada to Nigeria is profitable when done correctly. With proper documentation, verified suppliers, and reliable logistics, Nigerian businesses can build sustainable international trade operations.

Platforms like Kingmansa simplify this process by connecting importers with verified global suppliers.

Explore Kingmansa