The Kogi State chairman of the Association of Master Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria (AMBCN) addressed the media on Tuesday during a press conference convened in Lokoja to articulate the concerns of the baking industry.
In a comprehensive statement, he highlighted the myriad challenges faced by bakers, ranging from the escalating costs of essential baking materials such as flour, sugar, yeast, and vegetable oil, to the additional financial burdens imposed by rising fuel prices, including petrol and diesel. Moreover, he underscored the impact of multiple taxation from both federal government agencies and various levies, including emblems, assessment levies, and touting, exacerbating the difficulties faced by bakeries nationwide.
In light of these adversities, the Association of Master Bakers & Caterers of Nigeria conducted a thorough assessment of the prevailing business environment and has consequently put forth a series of demands. These demands include advocating for the liberalization of flour and sugar importation to alleviate the current supply constraints and calling for a reduction or complete elimination of import duties on key baking materials such as flour, sugar, butter, and yeast, aligning with recent measures taken by the federal government to stimulate economic activity and ease the financial burden on businesses across various sectors.