The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, today met with the Beer Sectoral Group (BSG)—representing Nigeria’s leading brewers—and PwC to deliberate on the future of excise duties and broader fiscal policy. The industry, worth over ₦3 trillion, employs about 2 million Nigerians and sources hundreds of thousands of tonnes of local grains annually, making it a key contributor to the economy.
During the talks, the BSG highlighted its vital role in supporting jobs, local agriculture, and government revenues, while cautioning that excessive taxation could shrink formal revenues, push consumers toward illicit alcohol, and dampen investment. Minister Edun acknowledged these concerns, stressing that the government’s reform agenda prioritizes policies that enable productivity, attract capital, and stimulate job creation.
“As we reform the economy, fiscal policy must remain an enabler, not a barrier,” Edun said. “Our focus is on ensuring the private sector can invest and expand, because that is where sustainable growth and jobs will come from.” The meeting ended with agreement to maintain ongoing dialogue as the government reviews the excise duty regime within its wider economic reforms.