Saralnama
Nigeria has banned the export of raw shea nuts for six months starting 26 Aug 2025. The ban aims to stop informal trade and boost local processing of shea nuts into products like shea butter. Nigeria produces nearly 40% of the world's shea nuts but earns only 1% of the $6.5 billion global market. The government wants to increase earnings from $65 million to $300 million annually by refining shea products locally. Vice President Kashim Shettima said this move will create jobs, support rural development, and empower women farmers. The Agriculture Minister said Nigeria produces 350,000 tonnes yearly but many nuts are exported informally. The ban will help factories run at full capacity and improve income for farmers and the government. The decision is part of Nigeria’s plan to become a global supplier of refined shea products instead of just raw nuts. (Updated 27 Aug 2025, 19:54 IST; source: link)