# Ginger Export

Ginger (botanical name Zingiber officinale) is one of Nigeria's most valuable non-oil export commodities — widely sought after in international markets for its quality, pungency, and versatile industrial uses. Nigeria stands as Africa's largest ginger exporter and one of the top producers globally.

## Why Export Ginger from Nigeria

### Global Demand

Ginger has strong global demand across industries such as:

- Food & Beverage: Spice seasonings, ginger tea, confectionery, ginger ale
- Pharmaceuticals: Anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory medicines
- Cosmetics & Personal Care: Lotions, soaps, essential oils
- Nutraceuticals & Herbal Remedies

### Nigeria's Competitive Advantages

- Large Production Volume — Nigeria produces hundreds of thousands of metric tonnes annually, with most supply exported.
- High Oleoresin Content — Nigerian ginger is prized for its strong flavour and high oil concentration compared with many competitors.
- Diverse Export Forms — Fresh, dried split, powdered, and oil/extract forms offer buyers flexibility.

📊 Key Export Statistics
According to the latest trade data, Nigeria exported approx. 3.2 million kg of ginger worth about $4.7 million in 2024.

3.2M kg
Total Export Volume
$4.7M
Export Value
#1
Africa's Largest Exporter

### Major Markets

- India (+643,405 kg)
- Vietnam (+478,410 kg)
- United Arab Emirates (+387,920 kg)
- United States (+279,459 kg)
- Netherlands (+471,072 kg)

Note: These figures reflect raw/primary ginger exports. Value can significantly increase with processing and value addition.

## Export Formats & Uses

- Fresh Ginger — Shorter shelf life, requires cold chain logistics, best for markets that process locally.
- Dried Split Ginger — Most popular export format, retains quality and flavour with longer shelf stability.
- Ginger Powder — Premium, value-added form used in food processing and supplements.
- Ginger Oil / Extract — Highest value form, used in cosmetics, pharma, and food flavourings.

## Quality Standards & Specifications

International buyers and regulators typically expect:

- Moisture content: 8%–10%
- Oil content: 2%–4%
- Impurities: ≤2%
- Microbial contamination: none
- Clean, well-graded appearance
- Absence of mould, foreign matter, or pests

Meeting these criteria enhances marketability and reduces shipment rejections.

## Packaging for Export

For Fresh Ginger: Ventilated cartons or crates, temperature control (+13°C), maintains freshness during shipment.

For Dried Ginger: 25kg–50kg polypropylene (PP) bags, interior mesh to prevent moisture ingress, clear labeling with origin, grade, and HS code.

For Powder / Oil: Vacuum or foil packaging, food-grade drums or sealed containers, batch traceability and safety labeling.

## Export Documentation & Compliance

- Company Registration (CAC)
- NEPC Exporter Certificate
- Phytosanitary Certificate (NAQS)
- Certificate of Origin
- Commercial Invoice & Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
- Quality Test Certificates (moisture, contamination)
- Optional Organic / HACCP / ISO 22000 Certifications for premium markets

## Steps to Export Ginger – Practical Guide

1. Register as Exporter — With CAC & NEPC, obtain NOP form via bank.
2. Source Quality Ginger — From farmers/aggregators in major producing states (Kaduna, Nasarawa, Gombe).
3. Clean, Grade & Process — Remove soil, sort by size/quality, dry/generate required product forms.
4. Quality Testing & Certification — Internal checks + lab reports, phytosanitary and fumigation certificates.
5. Packaging & Labeling — Use export-standard materials, include traceability labels.
6. Arrange Logistics — Choose sea freight (common) or air freight (fast), work with experienced freight forwarders.
7. Export & Follow-up — Monitor shipment, address buyer feedback and documentation as needed.

## Market Opportunities & Growth

Emerging Markets: Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia), Europe (Netherlands, UK, Germany) — rising demand for quality/processed ginger, Americas (USA, Canada) — interest in spices & health products.

Value-Added Potential: Processed ginger powder and oils fetch significantly higher prices than raw forms. Exporters who invest in processing, branding, and certification can command premium markets.

📌 Conclusion
Ginger export from Nigeria remains a profitable and strategic agricultural business with strong global demand. With proper quality control, certification, and market targeting, exporters can secure long-term contracts, higher prices, and sustainable foreign exchange earnings. Nigerian ginger's unique flavour, aroma, and versatility position it as a standout commodity in international trade.

### You Might Also Like

#### Palm Oil Export

#### Garlic Export

#### Cashew Nut Export

#### Cocoa Export

#### Sesame Seed Export

#### Turmeric Export