Nigeria moves to stop raw shea exports and boost local processing
The Federal Government has announced a halt to the export of raw shea nuts, aiming to increase value addition within Nigeria. John Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, emphasized the need for industrialisation and regional integration in the shea sector. The move is part of a broader policy to shift from exporting raw commodities to processing them locally, creating jobs and increasing Nigeria’s share in the global market. Ali Saidu has been appointed as the new Chair of the Global Shea Alliance, marking the first time a Nigerian leads the international body.
What we know
- John Enoh stated that exporting raw shea nuts while importing finished products must end, highlighting a new domestic policy direction.
- Nigeria produces up to 500,000 tonnes of shea nuts annually but captures only about one per cent of the $6.5bn global shea market.
- The government aspires to increase processed shea earnings from $65m to $300m in the near term, with potential growth to $3bn by 2027.
- The initial export ban led to a 33 per cent drop in domestic raw shea nut prices within three days, impacting rural farmers and collectors.
- Ali Saidu of Salid Agriculture Nigeria Limited was appointed Chair of the Global Shea Alliance, the first Nigerian to lead the body.
