Nigerian Cocoa Beans: A Premier Choice for Global Buyers

Nigeria is one of the leading producers and exporters of cocoa beans worldwide, supplying high-quality cocoa to numerous countries. The superior quality of Nigerian cocoa beans attracts many international buyers, and an increasing number of dealers are seeking information on how to purchase cocoa beans from Nigeria.

 Why Choose Cocoa Beans from Nigeria?

In certain African countries, buying cocoa beans can be complicated due to stringent government controls. For instance, in countries like Ivory Coast, the government plays a significant role in cocoa sales, making the process cumbersome. However, Nigeria provides a more accessible market where local companies have the freedom to buy and sell cocoa beans and other cocoa products. This open market system simplifies the trading process for international buyers, making Nigeria an attractive destination for cocoa bean procurement. Over the past few years, there has been a noticeable rise in buyers from Europe, the United States, and Asia.

Basic Information About Cocoa Beans

Nigeria produces cocoa beans in several states, with an annual production yield of approximately 300,000 metric tons. Cocoa farming is a major agricultural activity in states such as Ondo, Cross River, Ogun, and Ekiti. These regions are known for producing cocoa beans with a distinctive flavor profile and high butter content, making them highly sought after by chocolate manufacturers worldwide.

Key Cocoa Producing Areas:

• Ondo State: The largest cocoa producing state in Nigeria, known for its high quality beans.
• Cross River State: Renowned for its robust flavor and excellent bean quality.
• Ogun State: Produces a significant amount of cocoa beans with a unique flavor profile.
• Ekiti State: Known for its consistent bean quality and high production yield.

Common Cocoa Beans Specifications in Nigeria

International buyers should consider the following specifications when purchasing cocoa beans from Nigeria:

•  Bean Size: Average of 100 to 110 beans per 100 grams
•  Moisture Content: Maximum 8%
•  Foreign Matter: Maximum 2%
•  Mold: Maximum 3%
•  Free Fatty Acids: Maximum 1.75%
•  Bean Count: 100 – 110 beans per 100 grams
•  Inspection: SGS

These specifications ensure that buyers receive high quality cocoa beans suitable for various chocolate and cocoa product manufacturing needs.

 Cocoa Processing and Value Addition

Nigeria is not only a major producer of raw cocoa beans but also has several cocoa processing facilities. These facilities produce cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and other cocoa derivatives. Local processing adds value to the raw beans, offering international buyers various cocoa products.

Purchasing Cocoa Derivatives

To buy processed cocoa products, buyers can either:

 Partner with local processing facilities: This allows for direct purchase and potentially lower costs.

 Set up processing facilities: By investing in local processing plants, buyers can process beans locally, reducing export costs and increasing profit margins.

 How to Safely Source Your Cocoa Beans

Buying directly from reputable export companies can make the purchase process smooth and hassle free. Here are a few important considerations when dealing with an export company in Nigeria:

1. Corporate Registration: The export company must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
2. Export Certification: The company should be registered with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC).
3. Domiciliary Account: The company should have a domiciliary account for international payments.
4. Export Documentation: Ensure all necessary exportrelated documents are prepared before shipment, including:

•     Certificate of origin
•     Bill of lading
•     Inspection Certificate (SGS, Cotecna, Bureau Veritas, Intertek, etc.)
•     Phytosanitary certificate
•     Fumigation certificate

Where to Find Reliable Exporters

To find cocoa bean exporters in Nigeria, you can use the following methods:

•  Attend trade fairs
•  Use search engines like Google or Yahoo
•  Search for agents on LinkedIn
•  Sign up on trade platforms (e.g., Alibaba, Tradeford, Go4WorldBusiness)

Effy Agro offers a reliable global order fulfillment solution for cocoa beans and other agricultural produce. Our endtoend supply chain solution ensures the export of quality cocoa beans is easy, quick, and safe. From placing your order to successful delivery, we ensure a seamless experience.

 Price of Cocoa Beans

The unit price of cocoa beans depends on various factors, including:

•  Grade of the Produce: Higher quality beans typically command higher prices.
•  Raw Material Cost: The price of the raw beans affects the overall cost.
•  Bean Age: Older beans might affect the price.
•  Order Quantity: Larger quantities often result in lower prices per ton.
•  Harvest Season: Prices are higher outside the harvest season.
•  Freight and Haulage Costs: These vary based on distance and shipping method.
•  Markup Percentage: Varies by seller.
•  Import Duties: Differ by country.
•  Relationship Between Buyer and Seller: Long Term relationships may lead to better pricing.
•  Technology/Infrastructure: Advanced infrastructure can lower costs.
•  Distance from Origin: Shipping costs vary with distance.

 Payment Methods for Cocoa Beans

Three common payment methods include:

1. Bank (T/T) Payment: International wire transfer from the buyer’s bank to the seller’s bank, taking 35 working days to clear.
2. Advance Payment: Partial payment upfront (3050%) with the remaining balance paid after shipment confirmation.
3. Letter of Credit (L/C): A bank guarantee that ensures payment once specific conditions are met, offering safety for both buyer and seller.

 Shipping & Delivery Terms

Consider the following factors for shipping your products:

•  Order Quantity: Larger orders may benefit from sea freight, while smaller ones might use air freight.
•  Cost of Delivery: Sea freight is usually cheaper for larger volumes.
•  Time of Delivery: Air freight is faster but more expensive.
•  Incoterms: Determine the most suitable shipping and payment terms for your needs (e.g., FOB, CIF).

 Import Cocoa Beans the Right Way with Effy Agro

Effy Agro is your trusted partner for sourcing and exporting quality cocoa beans. Our expertise and extensive network ensure that your orders are handled efficiently and delivered safely. Here are our trade specifications:

 Origin: Nigeria

 Product Name: Cocoa Beans

 Physical Specification: Based on buyer’s requirements

 Quantity: Based on buyer’s requirements

 MOQ: 10 Metric Tonnes

 Trade Process: Ex Works/FOB/CIF

 Inspection: SGS/Cotecna/Intertek/Bureau Veritas

 Packaging: Based on buyer’s requirements

 Payment Method: TT (Bank Transfer) or L/C

 Shipping Time: 15 to 25 days after confirmation of TT or L/C

 Loading Port: Lagos, Nigeria or Tema, Ghana

Expected Shipping Documents:

 Bill of Lading

 Certificate of Origin

 SGS Inspection Certificate

 Phytosanitary Certificate

 Fumigation Certificate

 Commercial Invoice

 Packing List