Niger has rolled out new taxes on imported and exported goods as it seeks more funds to fight a growing fight with Islamist insurgents.
Everyday items such as refrigerators, plastic bags, cigarettes and sparkling water have been reclassified as luxury goods, and slapped up to 12% import tax, the customs agency said in a statement. Selected exports, including agricultural products, livestock and gum arabic – staples and vital sources of rural income, will now carry a 4% export tax, it said.