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Export Nigerian Garri, Egusi, Palm Oil and More: Best Food Products for 2026
Nigeria is one of Africa’s largest producers of diverse agricultural products. With growing global demand for African food, Nigerian food exports are becoming highly profitable. If you are thinking of starting an export business in 2026, here is a complete list of food items you can export from Nigeria, along with some key tips for international trade.
1. Garri
Garri, processed from cassava, is a staple food in West Africa. It is highly demanded abroad due to the growing Nigerian diaspora in countries like the U.S., UK, and Canada. Export garri in 1-ton units, using 50kg or 25kg bags, following international packaging standards.
2. Vegetables
Fresh and dried vegetables are in demand worldwide. Some of the top Nigerian vegetables for export include:
> Ukazi leaf – widely used in soups
> Uziza leaf – common for seasoning and soups
> Dried Ugu leaf – spinach leaf substitute in international markets
> Bitter leaf – popular for soups and sauces
Dried forms are easier to export because they last longer and comply with shipping regulations.
3. Beans Flour and Melon Seeds (Egusi Ground)
Beans flour and egusi are popular Nigerian cooking essentials. Exporters can target African restaurants and grocery stores abroad. Packing in 25kg or 50kg bags is standard for shipping.
4. Ogbono and Cassava Flour
Ogbono seeds (for soup thickening) and cassava flour are high in demand among African communities abroad. Cassava flour is also gaining popularity in the gluten-free market.
5. Palm Wine and Butter Production
Palm wine is a traditional Nigerian drink, and butter (dairy or shea-based) can attract international buyers. Make sure it has proper pasteurization and packaging to meet export regulations.
6. Coconut Processing
Coconut products like coconut oil, desiccated coconut, and coconut milk are highly sought after in international markets. Focus on high-quality processing and certified hygiene standards for better acceptance.
7. Pepper and Tomato Paste
> Hot chili pepper (ground or whole)
>>Tomato paste
These items are staples for African, Caribbean, and Asian cuisine. Export in sealed, airtight packaging for longer shelf life.
8. Hibiscus Flower, Yoghurt, and Pap (Ogi)
> Hibiscus flower (Zobo) – popular for drinks
>Yoghurt – with natural preservatives for export
> Pap (Ogi) – traditional fermented cereal pudding
These products cater to both diaspora communities and health-conscious consumers abroad.
9. Other Leafy Vegetables
Ukazi leaf and dried Ugu leaf are popular for soups. Bitter leaf is widely used in traditional Nigerian recipes. Export dried leaves to reduce weight and increase shelf life.
10. Hot Chilli Pepper, Kola Nut, Potato, Semolina, Ginger Beer
These food items have a growing market abroad. Kola nuts are used in beverages, snacks, and health supplements. Ginger beer and semolina are popular among African diaspora and food enthusiasts.
11. Soybean, Groundnut, Okra, Cassava, Yam, Honey, Snail, Bitter Kola
These agricultural products are profitable exports:
> Soybean and groundnut – used in oils and snacks
> Okra and cassava – traditional African vegetables and flours
> Yam and pounded yam flour – highly demanded in African communities
> Honey and snail – gourmet and health food markets
> Bitter kola – herbal and medicinal purposes
12. Ofada Rice, Catfish, Shrimps, Pounded Yam Flour, Poultry, Fruit Juice, Cashew, Palm Oil, Plantain Flour, Palm Kernel, Ginger, Sesame Seeds
These products form the core of Nigeria’s exportable food items. They are widely demanded in African, European, and American markets. Exporting in tons (1000kg per ton) using 25kg, 50kg, or 100kg bags is the standard.
Tips for Exporting Nigerian Food in 2026
1. Standard of Measurement
1 ton = 1000kg
Can be packed as 100kg bags × 10, 50kg bags × 20, or 25kg bags × 40
2. Finding Buyers is Key
Without customers, exporting is impossible. So, you need to focus on international buyers, restaurants, and distributors first.
3. Compliance
Don't avoid following international food safety standards (ISO, HACCP), and always use proper packaging for long-distance shipping
4. Marketing
Online platforms like Alibaba, TradeKey, and social media can connect you with buyers abroad.
5. Start Small, Scale Up
Begin with smaller volumes and test markets. Once you find buyers, scale to tons for higher profit.
My Thoughts?
Nigeria’s rich agricultural produce offers endless opportunities for food export in 2026. From garri, vegetables, and flours to seafood, honey, and processed products, the global market is ready for quality Nigerian food. The key is finding buyers, maintaining quality, and exporting in standard tons.