Sourcing Gum Arabic from Nigeria: A Comprehensive Guide

Nigeria is one of the largest producers and exporters of Gum Arabic in the world, supplying high quality gum to numerous countries globally. Many international buyers prefer Nigerian Gum Arabic due to its superior quality and reliable supply. This guide provides detailed information on how to source Gum Arabic from Nigeria, ensuring a smooth and profitable procurement process.

 Basic Information About Gum Arabic

Gum Arabic, also known as Acacia gum, is a natural gum made from the hardened sap of various species of the acacia tree. In Nigeria, Gum Arabic is primarily sourced from the Acacia Senegal and Acacia Seyal trees, found mainly in the northern regions of the country. The gum is valued for its emulsifying, stabilizing, and thickening properties, making it a key ingredient in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

 Key Production Areas

•  Borno State: Known for high quality Grade 1 Gum Arabic.
•  Yobe State: Significant production area for both Grade 1 and Grade 2 Gum Arabic.
•  Adamawa State: Produces substantial quantities of Gum Arabic, contributing to Nigeria’s overall output.

 Common Specifications of Gum Arabic

When purchasing Gum Arabic from Nigeria, international buyers should consider the following specifications to ensure they receive high quality products:

•  Grade: Classified into Grade 1 (Acacia Senegal), Grade 2 (Acacia Seyal), and Grade 3.
•  Moisture Content: Maximum 15%
•  Ash Content: Maximum 4%
•  Viscosity: Variable, depending on grade and application.
•  Impurities: Maximum 1%
•  Appearance: Light amber to brown, with a slight odor.

 Advantages of Nigerian Gum Arabic

•  High Purity: Nigerian Gum Arabic is known for its high purity and minimal impurities.
•  Versatile Applications: Used in a wide range of industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
•  Sustainable Practices: Many Nigerian farmers use sustainable harvesting practices, ensuring the long term viability of Gum Arabic production.

 How to Safely Source Gum Arabic

Sourcing Gum Arabic can be streamlined by partnering with reliable export companies. Below are essential steps to follow:

 Verify Exporter Credentials

•  Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) Registration: Ensure the exporting company is registered with the CAC.
•  Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) Registration: The exporter should also be registered with the NEPC.
•  Domiciliary Account: The company should have a domiciliary account for international transactions.

 Required Export Documentation

•  Certificate of Origin
•  Bill of Lading
•  SGS Inspection Certificate
•  Phytosanitary Certificate
•  Fumigation Certificate

 Where to Find Reliable Exporters

To find trustworthy Gum Arabic exporters in Nigeria, consider the following methods:

•  Trade Fairs: Attend agricultural and trade fairs to meet potential exporters.
•  Search Engines: Use platforms like Google to search for exporters.
•  LinkedIn: Connect with exporters and agricultural trade professionals.
•  Trade Platforms: Register on platforms like Alibaba, Tradeford, and Go4WorldBusiness.

 Price of Gum Arabic

The price of Gum Arabic depends on several factors, including:

•  Grade of Produce: Higher grades typically cost more due to better quality.
•  Harvest Season: Prices may vary depending on whether it is harvest season.
•  Order Quantity: Larger orders often come with discounts.
•  Freight & Haulage Costs: Shipping costs can impact the overall price.
•  Market Demand: Fluctuations in demand can influence prices.

 Payment Methods

Common payment methods for purchasing Gum Arabic include:

•  Bank (T/T) Payment: International wire transfers via the SWIFT network.
•  Advance Payment: Typically 3050% upfront, with the balance paid after shipment.
•  Letter of Credit (L/C): Guarantees payment upon meeting specified conditions.

 Shipping & Delivery Terms

When shipping Gum Arabic, consider the following:

•  Order Quantity: Larger orders are usually shipped via sea freight, while smaller orders may use air freight.
•  Cost of Delivery: Sea freight is generally cheaper for large volumes.
•  Time of Delivery: Air freight is faster but more expensive.
•  Incoterms: Choose between FOB (Free on Board) and CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) based on your needs.

 Import Gum Arabic the Right Way with Effy Agro

Effy Agro is a trusted global order fulfillment and sourcing solution company with deep expertise in the Gum Arabic industry. Our end to end supply chain solution ensures the export of quality Gum Arabic is easy, quick, and safe. No matter where you are—Europe, Asia, USA, Canada, Africa, South America, or Oceania—you can reliably order your agric products, and we will ensure they are successfully delivered to you.

Our Gum Arabic Trade Specifications:

•  Origin: Nigeria
•  Product Name: Gum Arabic
•  Physical Specification: Based on Buyer’s Specification
•  Quantity: Based on Buyer’s Specification
•  MOQ: 10 Metric Tonnes
•  Trade Process: Ex Works/FOB/CIF
•  Inspection: SGS/Cotecna/Intertek/Bureau Veritas
•  Packaging: Based on Buyer’s Specification
•  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