FG bans Importation of Paracetamol, Metronidazole, other medicines

The federal government has released an updated schedule of prohibited trade items, signalling a firm stance on protecting domestic industries and managing foreign exchange.

The revised import prohibition list, dated April 1, 2026, details seventeen major categories of goods strictly barred from entering the country through any port of entry.

This latest directive from the Federal Ministry of Finance carries significant implications for importers, clearing agents, and the general public, as it covers a vast range of products from basic food staples to essential life-saving medications.

Among the most sensitive inclusions is the extensive list of prohibited medicaments under HS Codes 3003.10.00.00 through 3004.90.90.00. The government has totally banned the importation of common pharmaceutical products, including paracetamol tablets and syrups, metronidazole, cotrimoxazole, and chloroquine.

Other widely used health products, such as multivitamin capsules, aspirin, folic acid, and various ointments like penicillin and gentamycin, are now restricted to local manufacturers. Nation