In an attempt to boost Nigeria’s domestic shea processing industry, President Bola Tinubu has temporarily banned the export of raw shea nuts……CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
The declaration was made on X in response to worries that local processors now have restricted access to raw materials due to the excessive export of unprocessed nuts, endangering the existence of small businesses, many of which are held by women.
The industry is already debating the ban in great detail. The measure’s proponents contend that keeping raw shea nuts in Nigeria will promote increased industrial expansion, value addition, and job creation. Instead of continuing to supply raw resources, they think that by processing shea domestically, the nation may increase its role in the global shea value chain. However, given that shea plays a significant role in regional economies, detractors are wary, cautioning that the suspension may impede trade and lower short-term export revenues.
With over 50% of the world’s supply, Nigeria continues to be the world’s top producer of shea nuts. The country is a strategic player in the sector since states like Niger and Kwara are acknowledged as important manufacturing hubs. Other Religion players like the Ghana Shea Employers Association, which have long expressed worries about how international buyers were depleting local supplies and harming processors in West Africa, are reflected in the ban.
This choice represents a larger movement in Nigeria towards industrialisation and economic independence. The government wants to boost women-led businesses, empower rural communities, and increase the domestic value chain by retaining more raw shea in the nation. To guarantee the industry can manage the anticipated increase in demand, experts warn that successful policy implementation will necessitate significant investments in processing infrastructure, training, and market access……CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
