Background of the Study :
Trade policies play a critical role in shaping a nation’s economic landscape by influencing investor confidence, resource allocation, and domestic capital formation. In Nigeria, where policy adjustments have sought to align domestic production with international trade norms, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has been at the forefront of implementing trade policies aimed at boosting exports and, by extension, domestic investment. Over the period from 2000 to 2020, policy interventions such as tariff adjustments, export incentives, and regulatory reforms were introduced to stimulate local investment in export-related sectors (Adeyemi, 2023). These policies were expected to lower transaction costs and encourage reinvestment among domestic businesses. However, recent empirical studies suggest that while some investors have responded positively, others remain cautious due to persistent bureaucratic bottlenecks and inconsistencies in policy implementation (Bello, 2024). Furthermore, the linkage between trade policy reforms and domestic investment is complex, with external market pressures and fluctuating global demand contributing to uncertain investment climates (Chukwu, 2025). The NEPC’s role in facilitating trade appears to have created opportunities for investment in export-oriented industries; yet, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and limited financial support continue to hamper progress. By critically analyzing policy outcomes and investment trends, this study aims to elucidate how trade policies can be optimized to foster a more conducive environment for domestic investment in Nigeria.
Statement of the Problem
Despite multiple trade policy interventions, domestic investment levels in Nigeria have not uniformly increased. Inconsistent policy enforcement and regulatory delays have created uncertainty, discouraging local investors from committing capital. The NEPC’s initiatives, while well-intentioned, have not fully mitigated these challenges, resulting in a persistent gap between policy objectives and investment outcomes (Okoro, 2023). The uncertain investment climate, compounded by external economic pressures, raises concerns about the effectiveness of current trade policies in stimulating domestic capital formation. This study investigates these issues by exploring the relationship between trade policy reforms and domestic investment performance, identifying key impediments, and suggesting practical measures to enhance investor confidence and policy efficacy (Uche, 2024).
Objectives of the Study:
1. To evaluate the impact of trade policies on domestic investment through the NEPC’s initiatives.
2. To identify the challenges that hinder effective policy implementation.
3. To propose recommendations for aligning trade policies with domestic investment goals.
Research Questions:
1. How do trade policies affect domestic investment in Nigeria through the NEPC?
2. What are the main challenges impeding the success of these policies?
3. What strategies can enhance domestic investment under current trade frameworks?
Research Hypotheses:
1. H1: Trade policies have a significant positive effect on domestic investment.
2. H2: Regulatory inconsistencies negatively impact investor confidence.
3. H3: Effective policy alignment leads to increased domestic investment.
Significance of the Study (100 words):
This study provides vital insights into how trade policies can be leveraged to boost domestic investment in Nigeria. Its findings will inform policymakers, industry stakeholders, and financial institutions on the importance of regulatory consistency and infrastructure development. By addressing existing policy gaps and recommending actionable strategies, the research supports efforts to create a more attractive investment climate, fostering economic growth and sustainable development (Adebayo, 2023).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study is limited to examining trade policies and their impact on domestic investment in Nigeria through the lens of the NEPC, focusing solely on policy analysis and investment trends.
Definitions of Terms:
1. Trade Policies: Government measures and regulations that influence international trade.
2. Domestic Investment: Capital expenditures made by local investors within the country.
3. NEPC: Nigerian Export Promotion Council, the agency responsible for promoting exports.
Chapter One: Introduction
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