Thinking about starting an exportation business in Nigeria? Or are you an entrepreneur looking for a profitable way to tap into the growing demand for moving goods across the country? If yes, then this article is for you. In this 2025 ultimate guide, we will walk you through the key steps to start and grow your exportation company successfully.
Exportation is the selling of goods produced in Nigeria such as food, cocoa, and raw materials to international markets. It’s a strategic move that can open doors to higher revenue and global recognition for your brand or business.
Cost of starting an exportation business in Nigeria
First, you must register your company with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and obtain an export license from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). Together, this can cost between ₦50,000 and ₦100,000.
Product sourcing comes next, and depending on what you plan to export, you should budget around ₦200,000 to ₦500,000 for a small start.
Packaging, branding, and quality certifications such as NAFDAC or SON approvals can add another ₦50,000 to ₦150,000. The final step is logistics, where beginners often reduce costs by shipping through freight forwarders or shared containers. This can cost between ₦150,000 and ₦300,000.
Altogether, a small-scale exportation business can start with ₦500,000 to ₦1 million, while larger exporters may need ₦5 million to ₦10 million or more. With the right planning, this venture can open doors to global opportunities and long-term growth.
What is the most exported item from Nigeria?
The most exported item from Nigeria is crude oil, which contributes over 70% of the country’s total earnings and stands as the backbone of the economy.
Petroleum gas follows as another major export, generating billions of dollars annually and, together with crude oil, accounting for more than 85% of Nigeria’s exports.
Cocoa represents the leading agricultural export, creating jobs and foreign exchange while showing the country’s potential to diversify beyond oil dependence.
What can I export from Nigeria to other countries?
If you want to start an exportation business in 2025, here are 20 products you can export from Nigeria and why they are profitable:
1. Crude Oil
Crude oil remains Nigeria’s number one export, contributing over 70% of the country’s foreign exchange earnings, and it continues to be highly demanded in international markets such as Europe, Asia, and the United States.
2. Petroleum Gas
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) and petroleum gases are Nigeria’s second-largest export, shipped in large quantities to countries that rely on gas for power generation and industrial use.
3. Cocoa
Nigeria is one of the world’s top cocoa producers, and its beans, butter, and powder are widely exported for use in chocolates, beverages, and cosmetics.
4. Sesame Seeds.
With growing demand in Asia and the Middle East, sesame seeds from Nigeria are valued for oil production, bakery, and food processing industries.
5. Cashew Nuts
Nigerian cashew nuts, whether raw or processed, are exported mainly to India and Vietnam, where they are further processed for global consumption.
6. Ginger
Known for its strong aroma and medicinal qualities, Nigerian ginger is highly sought after by spice markets in Europe, America, and Asia.
7. Palm Oil
Although facing global competition, Nigerian palm oil remains a key export commodity used in food processing, cosmetics, and industrial products.
8. Rubber
Natural rubber from Nigeria is exported for use in tire manufacturing, footwear, and various industrial applications, making it a steady earner.
9. Cotton
Cotton from Nigeria feeds the international textile industry, which transforms it into fabrics, clothing, and household products.
10. Timber/Wood
Nigeria exports quality hardwoods used in furniture, flooring, and construction, especially to Europe, China, and the Middle East.
11. Coal
Despite the global shift to renewables, Nigerian coal still has strong demand in countries where it is used for energy and industrial purposes.
12. Solid Minerals
Nigeria’s solid minerals such as lead, zinc, tin, and aluminum are increasingly exported to industries abroad for use in construction and technology.
13. Charcoal
Charcoal is surprisingly profitable, as Nigerian hardwood charcoal is exported to Europe where it is used for barbecue and heating.
14. Leather and Hides
Nigeria’s hides and skins are highly valued in Italy, Spain, and other fashion hubs for producing shoes, bags, and belts.
15. Yam
Nigerian yam, famous for its taste and quality, is exported to the U.S. and Europe, especially to serve the African diaspora communities.
16. Pepper and Spices
Nigeria exports dry chili, black pepper, and other spices, which are essential in food seasoning and enjoyed in markets across Asia and Europe.
17. Fertilizers
Urea and blended fertilizers manufactured in Nigeria are exported to other African countries and beyond to support agricultural production.
18. Honey
Organic honey from Nigeria is increasingly in demand due to the global shift toward natural and healthy sweeteners.
19. Processed Foods
Packaged Nigerian foods like garri, dried fish, beans flour, and plantain chips are exported mainly to diaspora communities abroad.
20. Gold and Precious Stones
Gold, gemstones, and other precious stones are emerging exports, with rising demand from jewelry and luxury industries worldwide.
How to Start an Exportation Business in Nigeria (Step-by-Step Guide)
Let’s break it down, step by step with practical guidance and clarity.
1. Find a Product That Sells
First off, decide what you will export. Your product should be something you can source consistently, like cocoa, cashews, ginger, or shea butter.
Then, research. Check export market data (NEPC, ITC), buyer platforms like Alibaba or GlobalSources, and reach out to potential buyers for LOIs or sample interest.
You will save yourself from building a business with no real buyers. Make sure the demand is real before progressing to paperwork.
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2. Register Your Business
Next, head to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to register your company and get your Tax Identification Number (TIN). Being officially registered (especially as an LLC) gives you credibility when you talk to buyers and banks, and it’s a must for exporting legit.
Even if you are starting small, plan for the long term. Register properly from the get-go. It makes scaling smoother.
3. Secure Your Export Licence with NEPC
Once your business is registered, go online to the NEPC e-registration portal and get your Exporter’s Certificate. It’s a modest fee (around ₦13,500) and opens up access to NEPC’s training, export tools, and support.
This certificate is your export “passport.” No certificate, no exports.
4. Set Up a Foreign Currency Account & Learn FX Rules
Open a domiciliary (foreign currency) account with a bank. Your bank will guide you through the e-Form NXP (tracking export proceeds) and walk you through the required NESS levy (usually 0.5% of FOB).
They will also explain the repatriation rules (how fast you must return earnings to Nigeria). Without this account and understanding FX rules, the money from your first export can get stuck or delayed.
5. Get Product-Specific Certifications
Depending on what you export, you will need:
- A phytosanitary certificate (NAQS) for raw agricultural products
- A health export certificate (NAFDAC) for packaged foods
- A veterinary export certificate for any animal products
Also Plan ahead of time for these. Approvals can take days or weeks.
6. Prepare Your Export Documents Like a Pro
Your exportation documentation is not just paperwork. It is how your buyer and customs know you mean business.
Make sure you have:
- A clean, clear sales contract and proforma invoice (match quantities, prices, HS codes, only using industry-standard Incoterms like FOB or CIF).
- A packing list with weights and dimensions.
- The e-Form NXP, filed via your bank.
- A Clean Certificate of Inspection (CCI) from a pre-shipment inspection.
- A Certificate of Origin, usually processed via NACCIMA.
- And your Bill of Lading (sea) or Air Waybill (air).
7. Book Your Shipping, Get Insurance & Arrange Inspection
Choose a freight forwarder who knows your product and route. Get freight quotes for sea and air (balance cost vs speed), and secure cargo insurance (you don’t want a loss out at sea to ruin your business).
Then get your shipment inspectors to issue the CCI that your bank and customs need to release funds and authorize export.
8. Pass Customs and Get the Goods Moving
Submit your invoice, packing list, CCI, NXP, and Certificate of Origin to Customs. Once clearance is granted, your freight forwarder loads your goods, and you receive your Bill of Lading.
Note that one mismatch between documents can delay clearance. Nothing else matters until this goes right.
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9. Get Paid and Follow Repatriation Rules
If you are using a Letter of Credit (LC), submit documents to the buyer’s bank and you will be paid once verified. If you are using other payment terms, make sure they are secure or backed by trade finance.
And don’t forget, export funds are expected to be repatriated within the central bank’s deadlines. Staying compliant protects your bank relationship and your export eligibility.
10. Learn, Adjust, and Grow Smarter
After your first export, take a step back. Did everything go smoothly or what surprised you? Track costs, inspect buyer feedback, and refine your process.
Once you are confident, you can add more products or explore new markets. Growth only happens when your fundamentals are solid.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting an Exportation Business in Nigeria
1. How to start an exportation business in Nigeria for free?
You can’t start completely free, but mini exportation helps reduce costs. Begin with lightweight products like spices and use courier services. The main expenses are registration, certifications, and proper packaging.
2. What are the best export business ideas in Nigeria?
Great export ideas include cocoa, sesame, cashew, ginger, charcoal, and shea butter. Packaged foods like plantain flour and dried fish also sell well. Focus on products with strong international demand and easy sourcing.
3. How do I get buyers for export from Nigeria?
Find buyers through trade fairs, global platforms like Alibaba, or by joining Nigerian export associations. Building credibility with proper certification and quality products will help attract consistent international buyers.
4. How to start exportation of charcoal from Nigeria?
Register your company, get NEPC approval, and secure a reliable supply chain. Charcoal must be properly packaged and shipped in bulk. Working with an experienced freight forwarder simplifies logistics.
5. What are the import and export procedures in Nigeria?
The process includes business registration, NEPC licensing, filing e-Form NXP, product certification, and customs clearance. Following each step ensures smooth transactions, prevents delays, and builds credibility with international buyers.
6. How to start import and export business in Nigeria?
Register with CAC, obtain NEPC certification, and open a domiciliary account. Build trusted networks of suppliers and buyers, then handle logistics carefully through freight forwarders and proper documentation.
7. How to start food export business in Nigeria?
Get NEPC registration, secure NAFDAC approval, and ensure packaging meets international standards. Common food exports include garri, yam flour, and dried fish. Compliance with health regulations is essential for success.
8. How to start mini exportation business in Nigeria?
Start small with affordable products like spices, dried foods, or crafts. Use courier services to ship overseas. Mini exportation is a low-cost entry into global trade for beginners.
9. How to start agri export business in Nigeria?
Obtain NEPC and NAQS certifications, partner with farmers, and focus on products like sesame, ginger, and cashew. Good storage and logistics arrangements are vital for preserving product quality.
10. How to start cocoa export business in Nigeria?
Register with NEPC, get quality certification, and work with cocoa cooperatives. Ensure proper drying, packaging, and bulk shipping. Cocoa is one of Nigeria’s most profitable export commodities.
11. How to start small online export business in Nigeria?
Set up an online store or join platforms like eBay or Amazon. Focus on lightweight, in-demand products like spices or packaged foods. Use courier services for timely deliveries.
12. How much do I need to start an exportation business in Nigeria?
Mini exportation can begin with ₦200,000–₦500,000, while large-scale exports may require several millions. Costs depend on the product, certifications, logistics, and buyer agreements.
13. How much does an export license cost in Nigeria?
The NEPC export license costs about ₦13,500. Additional certifications such as NAFDAC or phytosanitary certificates may apply depending on the product being exported.
Conclusion
Starting an exportation business in Nigeria in 2025 is a bold step toward global opportunities. Exporting not only creates profit for you but also promotes Nigerian products on the world stage and supports local industries.
Success comes when you treat each step with seriousness and consistency. Now is the time to position yourself, take action, and turn your export dream into a thriving reality.
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