CPPE raises concern over foreign traders’ growing presence in Nigeria’s retail sector

The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) has formally requested a government review of business permits, expatriate quotas, and immigration approvals for foreign nationals currently operating within Nigeria’s retail and distributive trade sectors. The organization expressed specific concern regarding the increasing number of foreign individuals, particularly Chinese nationals, engaging in retail activities that compete with local businesses.

This policy intervention follows recent protests by auto spare parts traders at the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex. The demonstrators voiced grievances against the alleged encroachment of foreign nationals into the retail market, prompting the CPPE to advocate for regulatory scrutiny to address the impact of these operations on the domestic commercial landscape.