The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has warned that the Cargo Tracking Note System will hamper Nigeria's economic growth.

Daily Trust reports the Cargo Tracking Note System stipulates that with effect from 11 January 2010, every commodity loaded with Nigeria as its final destination has to obtain a Cargo Tracking Note from a Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) representative at all ports around the world.

A Belgium-based company, Transport and Ports Management System Limited Antasar Afrique has been appointed as the sole representative of the NPA and the only agent allowed to issue the Cargo Tracking Note.

Speaking through a representative at a press conference in Lagos, president of MAN, Alhaji Bashir Borodo, said the new system is an unnecessary burden which will encourage the diversion of cargo to neighbouring countries.

According to Vanguard newspaper, the managing director of the NPA, Malam Abdul-Salam Mohammed, has said that the proceeds from the Cargo Tracking Note levy collection will be used in financing safety and security matters at Nigeria's ports.