Discover how a fish seller turned her local food passion into a thriving export business, and how you can do the same!
Why Export is the new goldmine for local business?
Did you know that the global food export industry is worth over $1.5 trillion annually?
Many entrepreneurs are tapping into this growing market, with African exports gaining worldwide recognition.
See how local fish sellers and business owner like Cecilia transformed their passion for local cuisine into a 6-figure dollar earning business, proving that with the right knowledge and support, anyone can break into the international market and earn in dollars.
If you’re wondering how to start an export business, this guide will offer you certain valuable insights on how to make real money through export. Let’s jump in!
Steps on how to start an export business
Step 1: Get the Right Training and Mentorship
Success in exporting doesn’t happen by accident. Learning from experts is key! Here’s an export journey of Cecilia that began when she joined the African Import Export Solutions bootcamp, led by Mr. Nduka Udeh.
What She Learned:
The PSS System: Prepare
How to build a profitable export business from scratch:
- First, you need to have your business vision and goals, understand the market, and your competition. Create a solid business plan, budget, and determine the right capital you need, and get ready to adapt and take calculated risks.
Product Choice and Sourcing:
Know the right exportable product(s) that will give you the greatest profit, here are major exportable products:
- Ginger Powder
Ginger powder is one of the most traded spices in the world which Nigeria happens to be among the largest producers. Why we are not exporting ginger powder in large quantities is beyond me. You can start a business with this product and be making dollars on regular basis. Garlic is also on top of the list of items you can export from Nigeria to the US at a cheap price. - Textiles and Garments
This industry alone generates close to $32bn as revenue from export from Nigeria. It is also a fact that, unlike other products that battle with high strict rules of tests, Nigeria’s textiles enjoy duty-free passage into the United States where it has the largest market in the world because of its unique designs, ethnic African designs, and quality. - Cocoa Butter
These are the real sources of chocolates of all types. The fruits of Cocoa is used for the production of various skin care products, health products, and pharmaceutical products. The demand for Cocoa is very high in both America and UK and that is why cocoa farming is very essential in Nigeria. Export of this product from Nigeria to the USA would fetch you good money - Gallstone
This is a clay-like solid substance gotten from the gallbladder of matured cows and oxen. The size could be as big as chicken eggs. Gallstone is a hotcake for foreign pharmaceuticals because they use it for medical purposes. If you could lay your hand on a good quantity of well-dried gallstone about 100g that is well packaged, ready buyers are waiting for it in America. - Rubber
Nigeria has put in place proper Central Testing Laboratories to ensure that only certified export products leave Nigeria to America. Nigeria happens to be a significant producer of Rubber in Africa. A cubit meter of fine quality rubber goes for between $400 and $600 presently because of the instability of the dollar rate in the market. - Sesame Seed
This may sound a bit strange if you are not from the area where it is produced in the country. Sesame seeds can be found in quantity in places like Benue and Jigawa states in Nigeria. This product ranks second to cocoa in terms of export volume and foreign exchange earnings. Nigeria is the 5th largest producer of this commodity and shipping it into foreign countries like the US brings dollars to exchange. - Honey
Pure honey is another export product from Nigeria to the US. Presently, a kilogram of honey costs above $150 in the international markets. Pure natural honey contains trace enzymes as sugar, mineral, vitamins and amino acids. A litre of honey can fetch good dollars in the foreign market. - Garlic
Garlic is a cash crop that is grown under irrigation by farmers in the Savanna areas in Nigeria. With internationally certified good quantities of garlic, you are sure of foreign hard currencies. - Yam Flour
Nigeria is presently the highest producer of yam. In 2009 alone, yam export accounted for about US$450 million exchange. But due to low quality, it is saddening to know that the country is not maximizing its export potentials of these products. So there is a need for prospective exporters of yam to foreign countries to adhere to quality regulations that is guarding the process. Yam farmers must take this into consideration and tap from this opportunity. - Cotton
This sector recently received a boost from the National Cotton Association of Nigeria (NACOTAN) of N33 million to rehabilitate it. Cotton is the most natural source of fiber and it is in demand internationally. Export of this product to the US can fetch you a lot of money. - Cassava Flour
We already know that Cassava is food for all in Nigeria because of various methods of preparing it. There is a market for this export product in the US and foreign markets as well. - Cashew Nuts
Almost every part of the country has the potential to produce this international commodity. A great quantity of unprocessed raw cashew nuts can be exported from Nigeria to the US and this can in turn yield money. - Chili Pepper
Nigeria is blessed with good weather which supports the proper growths and production of the internationally accepted pepper. If you can grow and source for the export opportunity, you are sure to get it.
Licensing and documentation:
- Know all the essential licenses and documentations you need for your selected product(s) exportation.
- Branding and Packaging:
- Know how to brand and package your items the right way to attract buyers easily and save costs.
The PSS System: Send
- Prepare export documentations to avoid customs issues:
- Know how to get all the essential licenses and documentations you need: from local registration to export licensing.
- Know the right HS-Codes to use to pay the lowest duty.
2. Export with zero duties like a pro:
- Learn how to pay zero duties when shipping to the U.S by documenting for AGOA the right way.
3. Warehousing:
- Save up to 70% on shipping to the USA. You can use a simple trick. (Care to find out more – click here).
- Get low-cost warehousing solutions so you can distribute all over the USA.
The PSS System: Sell
Make your first $$$, selling everyday items to the U.S. Learn how to:
- Identify and sell in-demand everyday items in the U.S market.
- Set competitive prices that drive sales and attract repeat business.
- Create attractive listings of your items on popular online and in-store U.S stores.
Use the 9 Simple ways to find high buyers all over the USA:
- Know how to prepare your product to be accepted by African stores in USA.
- Learn how to ensure compliance with US regulations, product standards, and labeling requirements.
- Learn how to sell your products to US-based online stores, walk-in stores, wholesalers, retailers, and manufacturers.
To kick-start your export journey today
Step 2: Register Your Business & Meet Export Requirements
To start an export business, you must ensure your business is legally registered and complies with international laws.
Key Business Setup Steps:
- Register your company with Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), and NAFDAC
- Obtain an Export License from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC)
- Get the necessary export documentation (FDA approval, customs clearance, bills of lading)
Many entrepreneurs struggle with this process, but with African Import Export Solutions, you’ll gain access to expert guidance that streamlines the process, eliminating unnecessary hassle and complexity
Step 3: Choose the Right Shipping Method (The Game-Changer)
Choosing ocean shipping for specific times and shipments can be a game-changer in your export journey. This option offers numerous benefits compared to air freight, especially for certain types of shipments and time-sensitive deliveries.
Why Ocean Shipping is a Smart Choice:
- Cost-Effective: Shipping in bulk reduced transport costs by 70%.
- Reliable & Timely: Regular sailings ensured on-time product delivery.
- Seamless Documentation: Experts handled all customs & import paperwork.
Tip: Choosing the right shipping partner can make or break your export business. Work with an experienced logistics service provider to ensure smooth global delivery.
Step 4: Find Buyers Abroad & Expand Your Market
After setting up your business, you’ll need international buyers; here are three powerful strategies to grow you can use to grow and establish your customer base:
- Social Media Marketing: Using Instagram & Facebook ads to attract overseas customers
- Trade Shows & Networking: Attending international expos and trainings to connect with bulk buyers.
- Online Marketplaces: Listing your products on Amazon, eBay & U.S online stores
Tip: You need to build a strong online presence for your export business, as many buyers search for suppliers on Google, so having a professional website and social media pages is essential.
Step 5: Market Your Export Business Like a Pro
Having high-quality products is not enough; you need the right marketing strategies to attract international buyers. Here’s how to do it effectively:
Leverage Online Marketplaces
Top platforms where you can sell and export your goods include:
- Alibaba & TradeKey (for wholesale trade)
- African Natural Stores/US online stores (for handmade or specialty African goods)
Tip: If you’re exporting food, consider listing on African grocery e-commerce stores like African Natural Store
Step 6: Scale Up & Increase Profits
Like the entrepreneurs said earlier, you don’t have to stop at just exporting just that one item that has made it big in the U.S. you can also expand your business by:
- Adding More Product Lines – Introducing items like: smoked fish, spices, & packaged African meals
- Targeting New Markets – Expanding from the U.S. to China, Australia, Canada & Europe (that’s where Africa Import Export Solutions come in)
- Optimizing Operations – Investing in better packaging & branding for higher product appeal
The result? Over $30,000 in monthly revenue and a thriving global brand.
An Advice for New Exporters
“Find a mentor, start small, and don’t be afraid of challenges. With the right strategy and support, you can build a profitable export business.”
Are you ready to start your own successful export business?
To achieve international success, follow this well-tested and successful blueprint by taking the first step today!
Check out African Import Export Solution and get expert guidance on launching your export journey.
FAQs
How much money do I need to start an export business?
Starting an export business doesn’t always require huge capital. You can begin with as little as $10, 100, 500….to $1,000, depending on the product, shipping method, and documentation required. If you choose bulk shipping via ocean freight, costs will be lower than air freight.
What are the most profitable export products from Africa?
Some of the best-selling export products include:
- Food items – Dried catfish, palm oil, cocoa, cashew nuts, spices, and shea butter
- Handicrafts & textiles – Ankara fabric, leather goods, and traditional jewelry
- Raw materials – Timber, minerals, and agricultural products
Do I need an export license to sell internationally?
Yes! You must register your business and obtain an Export License from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) or your country’s export authority. You may also need:
- FDA Registration (if exporting food items to the U.S.)
- Customs clearance & shipping documents
Is the export business only for large companies?
No! Many small businesses successfully export their products worldwide. You don’t need a factory, you can source products from local suppliers and resell them internationally.
Can I export from home without a physical store?
Yes! Many successful exporters run their business from home using online platforms and third-party logistics providers to handle shipping.
What is the easiest product to export for beginners?
It incudes:
- Packaged food items (dried fish, spices, shea butter)
- Handicrafts & textiles
- Natural beauty products (black soap, essential oils)
How do I find international buyers for my export products?
Here are some effective strategies to attract global customers:
- Sell on online marketplaces – Amazon, Alibaba, eBay, and specialized African food platforms
- Use social media marketing – Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn to showcase your products
- Attend international trade fairs – Networking with wholesalers and retail buyers
- Register on export directories – Websites like TradeKey and Global Sources
What is the best shipping method for an export business?
For small shipments, air freight is faster but expensive. For bulk exports, ocean freight is 70% cheaper and allows for higher profit margins.
How do I ensure my products meet international standards?
Before exporting, research the import regulations of your target country. Some common compliance requirements include:
- Food safety certifications (FDA, HACCP, etc.)
- Proper packaging & labeling
- Customs documentation & trade permits
How long does it take to start making profits in an export business?
It depends on your product, marketing strategy, and customer base. Some entrepreneurs start making profits within 3-6 months, while others take up to a year to build a steady cash flow.
What are the biggest challenges in exporting, and how can I overcome them?
Some major challenges include:
- Strict import regulations – Research compliance laws before shipping.
- Finding international buyers – Use online marketplaces, networking, and trade fairs.
- High shipping costs – Choose ocean freight over air freight for cost-effective transport.
- Product quality concerns – Invest in proper packaging & quality control.
Got More Questions?
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