Export Business In Nigeria: What You Should Know

Export business in Nigeria is a very attractive opportunity for anyone who is dreaming of starting their own enterprise. Export is very different from any other types of businesses, which is why there is a lot for you to learn before you start.

Founding an export enterprise takes many essential steps that you need to know everything about in order for the business to be successful. Find out how to export goods from Nigeria to other countries today!


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1. What to export?

Nigeria is a country that is incredibly rich in natural resources; plus, there are many industries that produce high-quality goods that would definitely be a success overseas. However, some branches of export are definitely more profitable than the others. Here are the best things to export right now:

  • Vegetables (both fresh and processed)
  • Palm oil
  • Plantain
  • Ginger
  • Bitter cola
  • Crayfish
  • Soybeans
  • Shea butter
  • Arts and crafts

These are the Nigerian export products that enjoy the highest demand around the world. As you can see, agricultural export products in Nigeria are definitely the most profitable ones, as food and other agricultural goods are always among the best-selling ones. If you’re in doubt over which export business to start, begin with the agricultural industry.

2. General export tips

Regardless of the product or the industry you pick for your enterprise, starting export business Nigeria is impossible without some basic rules. Here is a step by step guide to your own export business.

  1. Choose the product. You can use the list above or do your own research to find out which Nigerian products have the highest demand overseas. In addition to choosing what to export, you also need to decide whether you’ll produce your own goods or buy them from other sellers.
  2. Legalize your business. The first thing any foreign partner you plan to work with will ask is whether your business is registered with the Nigerian Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), so better register it sooner rather than later.
  3. Find the buyers. Without the importers, an export business makes no sense. Luckily, today you don’t need to leave your office to establish contacts with overseas partners – you just need to register at international B2B and trade websites and use them to build connections.
  4. Be out there. No matter how great your product may be, you need to advertise and showcase the goods to find the best export deals and attract a larger number or partners. International fairs and committees are a great way to get your product out in the world.

3. How to export ginger from Nigeria

Ginger is one of the best-known root plants grown in Nigeria. It is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry and in cooking. Ginger can be sold fresh or dried and ground. The biggest importers of ginger are China, India, Brazil, Australia, and other large countries.

If you’re wondering how to start export business in Nigeria with ginger, you have two main options: to sell ginger root, either dried or fresh, and ginger oil. The steps to take in establishing your export business are the same, but you need to take special precautions in keeping the ginger fresh in case you’re selling the unprocessed product.

4. How to export palm oil from Nigeria

Palm oil is another staple of local Nigerian business. We’ve already covered how to start a palm oil business in Nigeria – you can take the same steps and simply substitute the part where you sell the oil to the local customers by bringing it out in the international market.

Today Nigeria is the fourth biggest exporter of palm oil in the world, but if more people get into this profitable business, Nigeria may soon become the leader in the palm oil market – use your opportunity today while there is still room for growth in this industry!


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My name is Inna. I am a content writer with an English and literature background. As a mother of a 4-year old son, I love learning about children’s health and development, as well as finding new interesting toys and activities for my little one. I am also in love with all things tech and always keep my finger on the pulse of new smartphone and gadget releases. Another big passion of mine is beauty and makeup – every day I read about new trends in skin care and makeup and always look forward to trying them. Plus, I love pop culture, travelling, crafts, and anything that can make our daily life more thrilling!