How to Export Dry Agricultural Produce and Spices from Nigeria: A Beginner’s Guide

Nigeria is blessed with vast agricultural wealth. Demand for dry Nigerian foodstuffs, spices, and agricultural raw materials continues to grow in the United States, United Kingdom, and across Europe. For new exporters, this presents an excellent opportunity to earn foreign exchange. However, exporting food is highly regulated. Knowing what you can ship, how to pack it, and how to get it through foreign customs is key to your success.

What agricultural items can I export from Nigeria?

To export agricultural products from Nigeria, you must only ship stable, dry goods such as dried ginger, hibiscus flowers, zobo leaves, and processed shea butter. Logistics networks do not support fresh, frozen, or refrigerated food items like meat or fish, which are strictly prohibited because they require cold chain logistics.

Selecting and preparing your dry agricultural produce

Foreign customs agencies, especially the United States Food and Drug Administration, have strict rules on imported food. You can learn more about food importing guidelines on the official US Food and Drug Administration website. Your products must be clean, free from pests, and thoroughly dried to prevent mold during transit.

Here are some of the most popular and viable dry goods to export:

• Dried ginger: Nigerian ginger is highly valued globally for its strong flavor and high oil content. Ensure it is sliced and dried completely.
• Hibiscus flowers (Zobo): Dried hibiscus petals are widely used in Europe and the Americas to make herbal tea and food colorings. They must be free of sand and insect damage.
• Shea butter: Pure, organic shea butter is in high demand for cosmetics and skincare. It must be processed and packed in airtight, leak proof containers.
• Spices and dry seeds: Items like dried chili peppers, alligator pepper, ogbono seeds, and egusi can be shipped if they are clean and dry.

Understanding the shipping limitations: no frozen foods

It is important to emphasize that you cannot ship fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, frozen meat, fish, or any items that need refrigeration. Standard international air shipping routes are fast, but they do not have refrigerated cargo areas. Moisture is the enemy of dry shipping. If your goods are damp, they will grow mold in the sealed package and will be destroyed by customs officials at the port of entry.

Choosing the right shipping route for your agricultural exports

When sending your dry agricultural products abroad, choosing the right service will save you money and keep your buyers happy:

• Small batches and samples: If you are sending samples to a prospective buyer or shipping small packages of spices, you should use Haulam Express Export. This air freight service delivers your cargo in 3 to 5 working days with door-to-door tracking. You can read details on the Haulam Express Export page.
• Large commercial orders: For regular shipments of dry ginger or hibiscus to the US and UK, shipping costs are your primary concern. Haulam Value Export offers consistent, cost-effective rates, delivering your goods in 5 to 15 working days. Details are available on the Haulam Value Export page.

Depending on where your buyers are located, you can choose dedicated routes such as shipping from Nigeria to USA, shipping from Nigeria to UK, shipping from Nigeria to Germany, or shipping from Nigeria to Canada. This ensures your products reach their destination efficiently.

Getting your documentation ready

To avoid customs clearance issues, ensure you have the following paperwork ready before booking your shipment:

1. Exporter registration: Register your business with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council to get your exporter certificate.
2. Phytosanitary certificate: Obtain this from the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service. It proves that your agricultural products have been inspected and are free from pests and diseases.
3. FDA registration: If you are exporting food to the United States, your processing facility must be registered with the US FDA, and you must file a prior notice before the goods arrive.
4. Detailed commercial invoice: List exactly what is in the box, the scientific name of the plant if possible, the weight, and the commercial value.

Frequently asked questions about exporting dry produce

Can I ship fresh yams or fresh vegetables?

No, fresh vegetables and fresh tubers are not allowed through standard air freight because they are perishable and can carry pests. Only processed, dry, shelf stable agricultural goods are permitted for shipping.

How do I pack dried goods to prevent spoilage?

Use food grade, moisture resistant bags. Vacuum sealing is the best way to keep out humidity and pests. Place the sealed bags into heavy duty cardboard boxes and seal all edges with strong tape.

Will my buyer have to pay custom duties?

Yes, the buyer may have to pay import duties depending on the destination country’s regulations and the value of the goods. Ensure you discuss this with your buyer beforehand so they know what to expect.

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