Blog
Nigeria is often called the “Giant of Africa,” not just for its population, but for its incredibly fertile land. In 2026, as the world moves toward organic and sustainably sourced food, Nigerian agricultural products like Sesame seeds, Ginger, and Cashews are more valuable than ever.
However, many aspiring “agropreneurs” are intimidated by the process. Is it difficult? It can be. Is it worth it? Absolutely. This guide breaks down the process into simple, actionable steps to help you move your goods from a farm in Benue or Kano to a warehouse in London or New York.
Key Takeaways
- Ensure your business is registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and, most importantly, obtain an Exporter’s Certificate from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).
- Every formal export must be declared through a commercial bank via the Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) Form. This tracks the inflow of foreign exchange back into the country.
- Quality is non-negotiable. Your products must pass inspections by the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS) to ensure they are pest-free and meet global phytosanitary standards.
- Moisture is the enemy of agro-exports. Commodities like ginger and cocoa must be dried to specific percentages (usually below 10%) to prevent mold growth during long sea voyages.
How to Export from Nigeria
Here’s how you can export agricultural produce from Nigeria:
1. What is the World Buying?
You cannot export everything. To be successful, you must focus on products with high international demand and a long shelf life. Here are the top performers for 2026:
- Sesame Seeds: Nigeria is a top global producer. These are highly sought after in Japan, China, and Turkey for oil and confectionery.
- Ginger: Known for its high pungency and oil content, Nigerian ginger (especially split-dried) is a favorite in Europe and the UAE.
- Cocoa Beans: The backbone of the global chocolate industry. The Netherlands and Germany are huge buyers of Nigerian cocoa.
- Hibiscus Flowers (Zobo): Used globally for herbal teas and natural food coloring. Mexico is currently the largest buyer of Nigerian Hibiscus.
- Cashew Nuts: Raw cashew nuts (RCN) are in massive demand in Vietnam and India for processing.
Don’t try to export five things at once. Pick one product, master its supply chain, and then scale.
2. Documentation and Registration
A. Incorporate with the CAC
The first step is registering your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Most international buyers prefer dealing with a “Limited Liability Company” (Ltd) because it offers more legal security.
B. Register with the NEPC
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) is the most important body for any exporter. Visit the NEPC E-registration portal. Upload your CAC documents and pay the registration fee (approx. ₦13,500 for new certificates) to get the exporter’s certificate.
C. The NXP Form
The Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) Form is a mandatory document handled through your commercial bank. It ensures that the money earned from your export returns to the Nigerian economy.
3. Quality Control
The biggest reason Nigerian exports get rejected abroad isn’t because of the product itself, but because of quality and contamination.
NAQS (Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service) must inspect your produce and issue a Phytosanitary Certificate. This proves your goods are free from pests and diseases.
SON (Standards Organisation of Nigeria) ensures your packaging and product specifications meet international benchmarks.
Lab testing is also required as many European buyers will require a certificate showing that your product has no traces of banned pesticides or high levels of lead/cadmium.
4. Finding International Buyers
How do you find someone in France to buy your ginger?
- Digital Marketplaces: Use platforms like Alibaba, Tridge, or Comilmart.
- Trade Fairs: Attend the NEPC-organized trade fairs or international events like Gulfood in Dubai.
- LinkedIn: B2B networking on LinkedIn is a goldmine. Search for “Agro-commodity buyers” or “Spice importers” and start building relationships.
- Export Management Companies: Partner with experts like Ovalium Pulver who already have established trade channels.
5. Moving the Goods (Logistics)
You have two main options for shipping: sea freight, which is best for large volumes (containers) of non-perishables like charcoal or cocoa. It’s cheaper but takes weeks. Air freight is best for perishables (vegetables, fruits) or small, high-value samples. It’s expensive but reaches the destination in 24-48 hours.
You will need a Freight Forwarder. They handle the “dirty work” at the ports, including customs clearance and booking space on ships or planes.
6. Pricing and Getting Paid
Never ship your goods without a clear payment structure. The industry standard is a Letter of Credit (LC), in which the buyer’s bank guarantees payment upon receipt of proof of shipment. Also, the buyer pays a percentage (e.g., 30% or 50%) before you ship and the rest upon receipt of documents.
When pricing, remember to include:
- Cost of sourcing the product.
- Cleaning, drying, and packaging.
- Transportation to the port.
- Export levies and documentation fees.
- Your profit margin.
7. Common Pitfalls to Avoid
One of the pitfalls to avoid is inadequate drying. If your ginger or cocoa isn’t dried to the required moisture level (usually below 10%), it will grow mold during the 30-day sea voyage. Also, using cheap bags that tear will lead to losses and rejection.
Under the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area), you can get tax breaks if you prove your product was grown in Nigeria.
Export with Confidence with Ovalium Pulver
Are you ready to tap into the multi-billion-dollar global demand for Nigerian cocoa, ginger, and hibiscus?
Don’t let paperwork and logistics hold you back. Ovalium Pulver bridges the gap between local production and international markets. Whether you are a small-scale farmer or a growing enterprise, you get the expertise and supply chain solutions you need to go global. Ovaliun Pulver is your #1 agro commodity export company in Nigeria.
Conclusion
Navigating the complexities of global trade can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Ovalium Pulver specializes in creating viable trading channels and delivering high-quality Nigerian commodities to the global market.
With the right information, a commitment to quality, and a reliable partner, you can turn local farm produce into foreign currency.
Ready to go global? Take the next step with Ovalium Pulver today and grow your business beyond borders.
FAQs
1. Can I get a tax holiday for my export business?
Yes. Under the Pioneer Status Incentive (PSI), companies engaged in the processing of agricultural produce can enjoy a tax-free period of 3 to 5 years. Additionally, 100% of profits from goods exported from Nigeria are exempt from tax, provided the proceeds are repatriated and used exclusively for purchasing raw materials or equipment.
2. What happens if my international buyer refuses to pay?
This is a major risk. To mitigate this, you should apply for Export Credit Insurance from the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM). They offer policies that protect you against “commercial risks” (like buyer insolvency) and “political risks” (like sudden trade embargos), covering up to 85% of your loss.
3. Is there a government grant for agro-exporters in 2026?
While direct “free money” is rare, the Export Expansion Grant (EEG) is the primary incentive. It provides a credit certificate (ranging from 5% to 15% of your export value) that you can use to settle federal taxes or buy government bonds. There are also single-digit interest loans available through the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and NEXIM.
4. Can I export processed food like Garri or Poundo Yam?
Yes, but the rules are stricter. While raw seeds only need a Phytosanitary certificate, processed foods usually require FDA approval (for the US) or EFSA compliance (for Europe). You must also ensure the packaging includes nutritional facts and meets the specific labeling laws of the destination country.
5. What is the best way to package dried ginger to prevent spoilage?
For dried split ginger, the industry standard is clean, new polypropylene (PP) bags (usually 25kg or 50kg). Using recycled bags can lead to cross-contamination or pest infestation, which are grounds for immediate rejection at European or American borders.
6. Can I use a regular savings account to receive export payments?
No. You must open a Domiciliary Account (usually in USD, EUR, or GBP) linked to your business. The Central Bank of Nigeria requires that all export proceeds be deposited here. You can then sell these funds at the prevailing market rate or use them for business-related foreign transactions.
7. Are there specific products I am NOT allowed to export?
Yes. Nigeria has an Export Prohibition List. Items often restricted include raw hides and skins (to encourage local leather industries), certain timber species, and imported goods that have been re-packaged. Always check the current Customs Prohibition List before sourcing.
