By 9jaDirectory Editorial Team | Updated: November 2025
With the Naira constantly fluctuating, earning in foreign currency (USD/GBP) is the best hedge against inflation. One of the most accessible ways to do this is through Foodstuff Export.
Nigerians in the Diaspora (UK, USA, Canada) are craving home food—Yam, Garri, Egusi, Palm Oil, and Dried Fish. The demand is massive. Here is how you can tap into it in 2025.
Step 1: Registration (The Legal Shield)
You cannot export legally without these:
- CAC Registration: Limited Liability Company is preferred by foreign partners.
- NEPC License: Register with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.
- Cost: ~₦13,500.
- Timeline: 24-48 hours (Online).
- NAFDAC: For processed foods (like packaged spices or flour), you need NAFDAC approval. For raw commodities, you need inspection.
Step 2: Hot Products to Export in 2025
- Dried Fish (Catfish/Stockfish): High demand in the US. Must be smoked properly (no moisture).
- Melon Seeds (Egusi): A staple for every Nigerian abroad.
- Spices: Ginger, Turmeric, Hibiscus (Zobo leaves).
- Cassava Flour: Gluten-free trend is making this popular globally.
Step 3: Finding Buyers
This is the hardest part. Don't just ship and hope.
- African Stores: Google "African Store in Houston" or "London". Call them. Send samples.
- LinkedIn: Search for "Procurement Manager" at food import companies.
- Friends & Family: Start small. Send to your cousin in Canada to sell to their community.
Step 4: Logistics & Shipping
You need a freight forwarder who understands perishable goods.
- Air Freight: For light, high-value items (Spices, Fish). Fast but expensive.
- Sea Freight: For heavy items (Yam, Charcoal). Slow but cheap.
Conclusion
Quality is king. If you send sandy Egusi or moldy fish, your reputation is dead. Start with high standards.
Need packaging materials? Check our Manufacturing Directory.
Packaging, Labeling & Quality Control
Export is stricter than local sales. Most buyers care about consistency and food safety:
- Dry products properly (moisture causes mold and rejection).
- Use food-grade packaging and clear labels.
- Keep batch records and supplier traceability where possible.
Documentation (Don’t Skip This)
Exact documents vary by destination and product type, but common requirements include:
- Proforma/commercial invoice
- Packing list
- Export documentation and inspections where required
- NAFDAC approvals for processed goods (see: NAFDAC guide)
How to Get Paid Safely
- Start with small orders and build trust.
- Use deposits and clear payment terms (don’t ship on promises).
- Work with buyers who have references or established stores.
Pricing & Landed Cost (Don’t Guess)
Export profit can disappear when you ignore landed cost. Your pricing should cover:
- Product cost + processing/cleaning
- Packaging + labeling
- Local transport to the exporter/forwarder
- Freight + destination handling
- Payment fees and refunds/returns policy
Start with small orders and refine your pricing based on real shipping bills, not estimates.
Quality Standards (What Gets You Repeat Buyers)
Diaspora buyers care about taste, hygiene, and consistency. B2B buyers care about documentation and repeatable quality. Build a basic system:
- Standardize drying/smoking and reduce moisture (mold is a major rejection reason).
- Use food-grade packaging and seal properly to prevent contamination.
- Create batch labels and track suppliers (traceability helps with larger buyers).
FAQ
Do I need NEPC registration?
For legal export operations, NEPC registration is commonly required. Requirements can change, so confirm from official channels before shipping commercially.
How do I find buyers faster?
Start with diaspora communities and African stores, then grow into repeat B2B buyers. Samples + consistency + fast communication usually win.
Where to Find Buyers (Faster)
Buyer acquisition is the real work. Combine multiple channels so you are not dependent on one source:
- Diaspora communities: WhatsApp groups and local community pages (start with samples and small orders).
- African stores: call and pitch with a clear price list + MOQ + delivery timeline.
- B2B sourcing: use LinkedIn to find importers and procurement managers.
- Referrals: one satisfied buyer can introduce you to 3 more stores.
Packaging for International Shipping
- Seal properly (vacuum sealing helps many dry goods).
- Use strong cartons and inner packaging to prevent crushing.
- Label clearly and keep batch records (helps with repeat orders).
FAQ (More)
Which market should I start with?
Start where you have access: diaspora communities and African stores in one country/city. A focused market helps you learn faster and build repeat buyers before expanding.
How should I structure payments?
For new buyers, start with small orders and require payment upfront or staged payments. As trust grows, you can offer better terms. Keep documentation for every transaction.
Do I need branding to export?
Branding helps, especially for retail shelves. For early B2B orders, consistency and quality matter most. Add branding as soon as your product quality and supply are stable.
Quick Checklist (Before You Ship)
- Confirm buyer requirements and destination rules.
- Test packaging with a small shipment first.
- Document every order (invoice, packing list, payment proof).
- Keep quality consistent (batch records and clean processing).
Build Visibility (Diaspora Buyers Search Online)
Create a profile page that buyers can verify and share:
List your export business on 9jaDirectory and include your WhatsApp, product list, and minimum order quantities.
Explore related categories like Agriculture, Manufacturing, and Transportation.
Shipping Options (Start Small, Then Scale)
Many exporters begin with small parcels or consolidated shipments to test demand, packaging strength, and buyer reliability. Once you have repeat orders, scale into consolidated cargo so your cost per kilogram improves.
- Parcels: fastest testing, higher cost per kg.
- Consolidated cargo: better pricing, requires planning and documentation.
Conclusion
Foodstuff export rewards consistency: reliable quality, clear documentation, and fast communication with buyers. Start with one market, build repeat orders, and increase shipment size gradually as your process becomes stable.
