The Nigerian government denies banning cocoa and reveals its plan to maximize revenues.
The government confirms continued exports of raw cocoa alongside expansion of domestic manufacturing.
Written by: Mohammed Omran
The Nigerian government has denied reports that it intends to ban grain exports. cocoa Raw materials, stressing that its current policy aims to enhance the added value of the product through expanding local manufacturing, without imposing any restrictions on exports.
The Nigerian government denies banning raw cocoa exports and affirms its support for local manufacturing.
Nigerian Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, said that what has been circulating about banning raw cocoa exports does not reflect the government's policy, stressing that the goal is to develop the cocoa industry and increase its economic returns, not to stop exports.
Kyari explained that the government, under President Bola Ahmad Tinubu’s program, is working to build a globally competitive cocoa sector by encouraging investors to establish and expand local processing plants, while continuing to export raw grains as an important part of the trade system.
He added that expanding local manufacturing will contribute to raising farmers' incomes, creating new job opportunities, and increasing export revenues by exporting value-added products instead of relying solely on raw materials.
The minister noted that the government is also focused on improving tracking systems and adhering to international standards, ensuring that Nigerian cocoa exports maintain access to global markets and enhance their competitiveness.
Kyari concluded his remarks by emphasizing that the federal government does not intend to ban the export of raw cocoa, but rather seeks to maximize the economic benefits from this strategic crop by encouraging local manufacturing alongside continued exports.
