Togo to Lift Livestock Feed Import Taxes to Support Local Producers

Public finance

Monday, 17 November 2025 13:32

Togo to Lift Livestock Feed Import Taxes to Support Local Producers

(Togo First) - Togo’s livestock feed sector will be exempt from import taxes starting in 2026, according to the draft finance bill adopted by the Council of Ministers late last week. The measure will take effect once both chambers of Parliament give their approval.

The government said the exemption is intended to further encourage local meat production. Livestock feed is one of the largest expenses for livestock and poultry farmers.

The exemption is expected to play a central role in the government’s strategy to strengthen food security and the competitiveness of livestock value chains, particularly as part of efforts to promote local consumption. Lowering import taxes should enable farmers to obtain feed at more affordable prices, improving their margins and helping stabilize operations despite volatile global raw material prices.

The policy is also expected to boost domestic production of meat, eggs, and poultry, which could help lower consumer prices and reduce imports of frozen poultry and other meat products.

This tax relief builds on measures implemented in recent years to support local producers. In addition to training programs for farmers and industry stakeholders, the government reinstated an important requirement in February 2025: an order from the Ministry of Fishery and Animal Resources obliges importers of fish, poultry, and related products to purchase at least 10 percent of their intended shipments in local products before receiving an import license.

Esaïe Edoh

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