Grimaldi Clarifies Position on Sale of Shipping Containers, Customs Duty Responsibility
Lagos, June 3, 2026, Grimaldi Agency of Nigeria, has issued a clarification regarding recent reports on the sale of empty shipping containers by Grimaldi Deep Sea S.p.A.
The Management of Grimaldi made this known in a statement released on Wednesday, the agency addressed claims that the seller was responsible for customs duties after the sale.
Grimaldi said those claims were inaccurate and contradict the agreed terms of sale.
Grimaldi also denied reports that it sold 2,500 empty containers, described that figure was false and not supported by any facts.
According to Grimaldi Agency Nigeria, only a few empty containers were involved in the transaction, not thousands as reported in some outlets.
The agency explained that the containers were sold strictly in their international customs status, adding that it was commonly called a “foreign customs position”.
The statement said that the status means the containers were not transferred as domesticated equipment and they were not intended for permanent local use within Nigeria.
Grimaldi said the buyer was fully informed of these conditions before the transaction was completed.
The company said that in terms of the sale were clearly outlined in the documentation provided to the purchaser while the invoice expressly stated the customs status and responsibilities of each party.
“Based on those terms, Grimaldi maintained that liability for customs duties and any domestication process rests with the buyer, not the seller.
“The agency thereby urging media outlets and stakeholders to verify facts before publication to avoid misleading the public about its operations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that s maritime trade consultant, Mr Okey Ibeke, had on Monday called on the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to review the planned disposal of more than 2,500 empty shipping containers reportedly being handled by Grimaldi Nigeria.
He said the review would help ensure full compliance with customs procedures guiding temporary importation and conversion of shipping containers for local use. (NAN)