Nigeria has a huge agricultural potential and remains one of Africa’s most promising sources of exportable agricultural products. The country has millions of hectares of farmland, different climatic conditions and variety of crops to produce commodities in high demand in the international markets.
In recent years, agricultural exports have become a significant component of Nigeria’s non-oil export strategy. Nigeria’s non-oil exports reached a record $6.1 billion in 2025 and agricultural commodities were a big part of this rise. The growth reflects increasing participation in international markets, with products such as cocoa, cashew nuts, sesame seeds and other commodities contributing to the performance of the sector.
Exports of agricultural products to markets in Europe, Asia, North America and Africa include cocoa, cashew nuts, sesame seeds, ginger, hibiscus flowers, shea butter and soybeans among others.
But good crops are not enough to be successful in agricultural product export. Exporters need to understand registration requirements, international standards, documentation, logistics and buyer expectations.
This guide outlines the procedure for Nigerian businesses to export agricultural products to international markets.
Why Agricultural Export is a Huge Opportunity for Nigeria
The world’s demand for agricultural products is growing due to population increase, food processing industries and consumer interest in natural and organic products.
Nigeria has good export prospects in products such as:
- Cocoa beans
- Cashew nuts
- Sesame seeds
- Ginger
- Hibiscus blossoms
- Products with shea butter
- Products from palm
- Soybean
- Peanuts
- Processed agricultural food products
The major markets for Nigerian agricultural products are:
- Netherlands
- Belgium
- Germany
- United States of America
- United Kingdom (UK)
- India
- China
- Japan
The biggest opportunities are not just in the export of raw commodities. Businesses that invest in processing, packaging, certification and branding may realize higher profit margins.
Step 1: Register Your Export Business
Before they can export agricultural products commercially, businesses need to create a legal structure.
Registering with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
Companies must register with the Corporate Affairs Commission and obtain official company documents.
It is a good idea for companies that intend to export to include export activities in the company’s goals.
Identification Number for Taxpayers (TIN)
If you are an export business, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) will require you to obtain a Tax Identification Number.
These documents are to prove the legal identity of the exporter and are needed for further export registration.
Step 2: Register With Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC)
Commercial exporters of agricultural produce are to be registered with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).
The NEPC is responsible for promoting Nigeria’s non-oil exports and supporting exporters through:
- Training for export
- Information on the market
- Trade missions
- Links with buyers
- Export support programmes
The NEPC Exporter Certificate is the first step for firms that want to get into the official export business.
Exporters can register through the NEPC online registration system and will receive their exporter certificate upon approval.
Step 3: Open an Export Domiciliary Account
International buyers will pay exporters in foreign currency which must be received in foreign currency into a domiciliary account with an authorized dealer bank.
The proceeds of exports are to be properly received through the official banking channels.
This account benefits exporters:
- Get paid globally
- Keep export records
- Meet foreign exchange requirements
Step 4: Select and Prepare Your Agricultural Commodity
Selecting the appropriate product is one of the most important decisions in agricultural export.
Exporters may want to consider:
- World demand
- Availability of product
- Seasonal variation
- Production capacity
- Quality requirements
- Rules for target markets
Examples of export seasons are:
- Cocoa: Main season October–March
- Sesame: October–February
- Cashew: February–June
- Ginger: December–April
- Hibiscus: November–March
Products must be well prepared for export.
Proper preparation includes:
- Sorting
- Cleaning
- Grading
- Drying
- Packaging
- Quality testing
International buyers want consistency and reliability.
Step 5: Learn About Quality Standards and Certifications
Agricultural exports must comply with the standards of the destination country.
Different agencies are involved depending on product.
Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS)
Phytosanitary certificate from NAQS is typically required for plant-based products.
This certificate confirms that agricultural products meet the requirements for plant health and are free of pests and diseases.
Products which usually require phytosanitary certification include:
- Cocoa
- Sesame seed
- Ginger
- Cashews
- Hibiscus
NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control)
Processed agricultural products such as packaged food, beverages and some semi-processed products may require NAFDAC registration and export certificates.
Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON)
Certain manufactured or processed agricultural products may require a SON certificate.
Exporters also need to bear in mind destination-specific requirements such as pesticide limits, aflatoxin control and food safety regulations.
Step 6: Study Your Market and Buyers
Successful exporters don’t develop a product and then go looking for buyers.
Market research helps businesses understand:
- Where there is demand
- Who the buyers are
- Prices of competitors
- Import regulations
- Logistical needs
Exporters can find buyers through:
- NEPC trade programs
- International trade fairs
- Commodity associations
- B2B platforms
- LinkedIn groups
- Export agents and distributors
Long-term export success depends on developing relationships with reliable buyers.
Step 7: Get the Required Export Documents
Agricultural exporters must have appropriate documentation before shipment.
Typical export documents are:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) Form
- Phytosanitary Certificate
- Certificate of Fumigation
- Air Waybill or Bill of Lading
- Clean Certificate of Inspection (where applicable)
The Nigeria Export Proceeds (NXP) Form is submitted through an authorized dealer bank and is used to track export transactions.
One of the most common reasons for delays or rejections in shipments is incorrect paperwork.
Step 8: Properly Package and Label Products
Proper packaging and labeling are required for international markets.
Packaging must protect products during transport and storage.
Labels may need to include:
- Product title
- Country of origin
- Weight
- Lot number
- Date of production
- Expiry date (if applicable)
- Exporter information
- Storage instructions
There is an increasing demand from buyers in Europe and America for traceability, sustainability information and responsible sourcing practices.
Step 9: Logistics and Customs Clearance Arrangements
Agricultural products are usually shipped by sea freight because of the large quantities involved.
Exporters need to work with knowledgeable freight forwarders who know how to deal with agricultural shipments.
The export process requires:
- Customs declaration
- Product checks
- Verification of documentation
- Approval of shipment
- Loading and shipping
Exporters can also review international shipping requirements through DHL export guidance before arranging shipment.
Nigerian ports lie on the common shipping routes to major markets like Rotterdam, Mumbai and other international trade hubs.
Step 10: Get Paid and Build Long-Term Relationships
Payment terms must be clearly set out in export contracts.
The most popular payment methods are:
- Letter of Credit (LC)
- Bank Transfer
- Advance payment arrangements
New exporters need to be careful about buyers before sending out products.
Successful exporters concentrate on:
- Consistent quality
- Fast delivery
- Good communication
- Long-term partnerships
Common Problems When Exporting Agriculture
Opportunities exist but exporters face several challenges.
Quality Issues
Problems such as:
- High moisture content
- Pesticide residues
- Contamination with aflatoxins
- Insufficient storage
may result in rejection.
Logistical Problems
Exporters may encounter:
- Transportation delays
- High shipping costs
- Port challenges
Lack of Market Knowledge
Many exporters have problems because they do not understand the requirements of foreign buyers.
The solution is proper research, training and working with experienced export professionals.
Tips from Successful Agricultural Exporters
To move ahead abroad:
- Begin with one or two products
- Know your target market
- Invest in quality control systems
- Get necessary certifications
- Work with trusted logistics partners
- Maintain records
- Concentrate on products that add value
Exporting processed goods usually has better prospects than exporting raw materials.
For example:
- Cocoa beans → Cocoa butter or cocoa powder
- Shea nuts → Shea butter
- Cashew nuts → Kernels and processed products
Conclusion
Export of agricultural products from Nigeria to international markets provides huge opportunities for farmers, businesses and entrepreneurs.
But success means being well prepared, observing the rules, having dependable sources of supply and good relationships with international buyers.
With the right knowledge and strategy, Nigerian agricultural exporters can successfully compete in the international market and help grow the country’s non-oil export sector.
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