A Story That Started in Lagos, Nigeria
Funke (not the famous actress: Funke Akindele), a single mom in Lagos, Nigeria started selling handmade Adire fabrics at one of the local market, she never imagined it could end up in U.S boutiques. But one day, a tourist shared her designs on Instagram, and within weeks, orders flooded in from the U.S. which she now exports effortlessly with African Import Export Solutions.
I didn’t even know what ‘export’ meant,” she laughs. “Now, I ship over 500 yards of Adire Fabrics every month, all thanks to African Import Export Services (AIES).
Like Funke, thousands of Nigerian entrepreneurs are discovering the global demand for Nigerian-made goods. From luxurious Shea Butter to handcrafted bronze sculptures (art and crafts) and even eye-dazzling handmade Adire fabrics, American buyers are willing to pay premium prices (in dollars), but only if you know how to export to them the right way, at the right time.
Let’s get started!
Key Takeaways
- What are the top 20 products that sell like crazy in the USA?
- How to package and ship your goods profitably?
- FDA and other regulations needed for your Nigerian exports.
- How African Import Export Services (AIES) makes exporting simple: even for beginners.
Top 20 Products to Export from Nigeria to the USA
Most foreigners are in love with authentic, high-quality Nigerian products, especially those tied to culture, wellness, and sustainability. Below are the top best-selling products to export, where to source them, and how to ship them profitably.
1. Processed Cocoa Powder
Can be sourced from: Ondo, Cross River, Ekiti
Why Americans Love It: Nigeria is the world’s fourth-largest cocoa producer, and processed African Cocoa Powder is in high demand for the production of premium chocolates and artisanal baking.
Shipping Guide:
- Small orders (10–50kg) – Air freight via DHL or African Import Export Solutions for fast delivery.
- Bulk orders (1+ tons) – 40ft containers via Sea freight for cost efficiency.
FDA Requirement: Raw cocoa beans do not require FDA approval, but processed chocolate products do. If exporting cocoa butter, powder, or chocolate bars, you must register with the FDA’s Food Facility Registration system.
2. Shea Butter
Sourced directly from: Niger, Kwara, Kebbi
Why Americans Love It: With the rise of organic skincare, Nigerian raw and unrefined shea butter is in high demand, so why not tap into this profit-making business.
Shipping Guide:
- Personal use (5kg jars) – Shipped via courier services (DHL, UPS).
- Wholesale orders (200kg+ drums) – Can be shipped via Air Cargo (Fast) or Sea freight is cheaper, especially for bulk buyers.
FDA Requirement: If exporting Shea Butter as a cosmetic ingredient, FDA registration is not required. However, if it’s labeled for skincare or food use, it must comply with FDA cosmetic or food regulations.
Tip: To access the U.S. cosmetics market, ensure your Shea Butter meets FDA labeling and safety guidelines.
3. Adire & Ankara Fabrics
Sourced from: Abeokuta, Lagos
Why Americans Love It: African prints are trending in the fashion and design industry, interior decor, and crafts.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail orders (10–20 yards) – Use Air freight (DHL, African Import Export Solutions).
- Bulk orders (500+ yards) – LCL Sea freight is more affordable.
Tip: African Import Export Solutions can print U.S.-compliant barcodes for your Adire labels, making them store-ready.
4. African Black Soap
Can be sourced from: Ogun, Osun state
Why Americans Love It: Chemical-free skincare is booming in the cosmetic industry, and African Black Soap is a top seller in most U.S. and Asian organic stores.
Can be shipped via:
- Small orders (50 bars) – Air freight for quick delivery.
- Wholesale orders (1,000+ bars) – Palletized Ocean shipping or Air Cargo for reduced costs.
FDA Requirement: Cosmetic products like African Black Soap do not need prior FDA approval but must meet FDA labeling and ingredient disclosure regulations.
Tip: Label properly to pass FDA cosmetics regulations.
5. Dried Hibiscus Flowers (Zobo Leaves)
Sourced directly from: Kano, Jigawa, Borno
Why Americans Love It: Hibiscus tea is trending in the U.S. due to its high antioxidants and health benefits, making it a top seller in the herbal tea markets.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (5–20kg) – Use Air freight (DHL, African Import Export Solutions, FedEx) for freshness.
- Bulk (500kg–2 tons) – Ship via ocean freight in moisture-proof bags.
FDA Requirement: Dried hibiscus is classified as a food product. It must comply with FDA food facility registration and labeling regulations.
Tip: Vacuum-seal hibiscus flowers to maintain color and aroma, making them more attractive to premium buyers.
6. Plantain Chips
Sourced from: Oyo, Lagos, Ondo
Why Americans Love It: A popular snack in African, Caribbean, and Latino communities. Many U.S. stores are looking for authentic African-style plantain chips.
Shipping Guide:
- Small batches (10kg–50kg) – Ship via courier services (DHL, African Import Export Solutions).
- Bulk (1+ tons) – Use reefer containers for temperature control.
FDA Requirement: Plantain chips require FDA food registration and must meet U.S. packaging and labeling standards.
Tip: Use nitrogen-flushed packaging to keep chips crisp and fresh for longer.
7. Cashew Nuts
Sourced from: Kogi, Kwara, Oyo
Why Americans Love It: Nigeria is one of the top cashew producers in the world. Raw and roasted cashews are highly sought after by organic and health-conscious consumers.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (10–30kg): Air freight in vacuum-sealed bags.
- Bulk (500kg–1 ton): Ship in moisture-proof sacks via Sea freight.
FDA Requirement: Cashews are regulated as food by the FDA and must be properly labeled and registered before export.
Tip: Raw cashews have a higher profit margin than processed ones, as U.S. buyers prefer to roast them locally.
8. Palm Oil
Sourced from: Edo, Delta, Cross River
Why Americans Love It: Used in cooking, cosmetics, and biodiesel production. Red palm oil is especially popular in African and vegan communities.
Shipping Guide:
- Small orders (5L–20L bottles) – Ship via courier in leak-proof packaging.
- Bulk (200L+ drums or IBC tanks) – Ocean freight in food-grade containers.
FDA Requirement: Palm oil must be registered with the FDA as an edible oil. Proper labeling is required, and the product must be free of contaminants.
Tip: Always use BPA-free, leak-proof plastic jerrycans or drums to prevent spoilage and leakage during transit.
9. Locally Made Leather Goods (Bags, Shoes, Wallets)
Sourced from: Kano, Kaduna
Why Americans Love It: Handmade Nigerian leather is top-quality and sought after by luxury fashion brands and boutique stores.
Shipping Guide:
- Small orders (10 bags, 20 pairs of shoes) – Ship via Air freight.
- Bulk orders (200+ units) – Use Sea freight with custom crating.
FDA Requirement: Not required for leather products, but compliance with U.S. Consumer Product Safety standards is essential.
Tip: Partner with U.S. e-commerce platforms like African Natural Store, Etsy, Shopify, and Amazon handmade to reach fashion-conscious buyers.
10. Spices & Seasonings (Egusi, Ogbono, Suya Spice, Pepper Soup Mix)
Sourced from the Northern and Southern part of Nigeria
Why Americans Love It: West African cuisine is gaining mainstream popularity. Restaurants and home cooks seek authentic Nigerian spices.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (1kg–20kg) – Courier delivery in sealed sachets.
- Bulk (500kg–1 ton) – Ocean freight in moisture-proof bags.
FDA Requirement: All food seasonings must be FDA-registered and labeled with ingredient lists.
Tip: Pre-ground spices require testing for contaminants before entering the U.S.
11. Honey
Sourced from: Niger, Kaduna, Oyo
Why Americans Love It: Pure, raw honey from Nigeria is rich in antioxidants and preferred over processed alternatives. It’s widely used in organic food markets, skincare, and alternative medicine.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (1L–10L bottles) – Ship via courier (DHL, FedEx, UPS) in food-safe plastic/glass containers.
- Bulk (100L+ drums) – Use food-grade drums via Sea freight.
FDA Requirement: All honey imports require FDA registration and proper labeling. Ensure no additives are present.
Tip: To attract premium U.S. buyers, label your honey as “100% Raw and Unfiltered”.
12. Kuli-Kuli (Groundnut Cake)
Sourced from: Northern Nigeria (Kaduna, Kano, Niger)
Why Americans Love It: This crunchy, protein-packed snack is a favorite among West Africans living in the U.S.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (1kg–20kg packs) – Use air freight in vacuum-sealed packaging.
- Bulk (500kg–1 ton) – Use ocean freight with moisture-proof packaging.
FDA Requirement: FDA food facility registration is mandatory. Ensure compliance with U.S. food safety regulations.
Tip: Export in resealable, airtight packaging to extend shelf life.
13. Dried Fish (Stockfish, Catfish, Tilapia, Crayfish)
Sourced from: Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, Lagos
Why Americans Love It: Nigerian dried fish is a staple in African, Caribbean, and Asian cuisines, making it a hot commodity in ethnic food stores across the U.S.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (5kg–20kg bags) – Air freight for freshness.
- Bulk (500kg–2 tons) – Palletized sea freight in moisture-proof packaging.
FDA Requirement: Must be registered with the FDA as a seafood product and pass inspection for contaminants like mercury.
Tip: Vacuum-seal dried fish in oxygen-barrier bags to prevent moisture and preserve freshness.
14. Garri (Cassava Flakes)
Sourced from: Oyo, Ogun, Delta, Edo
Why Americans Love It: Garri is a household staple among West African immigrants, making it a must-have in African grocery stores.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (5kg–50kg bags) – Courier services in resealable plastic bags.
- Bulk (1+ tons) – Sea freight in woven polypropylene sacks.
FDA Requirement: FDA registration is required, and garri must be free from contaminants and properly labeled.
Tip: Export Ijebu Garri (fine-textured) & Yellow Garri separately, as they have different buyer preferences.
15. Nigerian Sculptures & Artworks (Benin Bronzes, Wood Carvings, Beaded Masks)
Sourced from: Benin, Ife, Osogbo, Abuja
Why Americans Love It: Nigerian artwork is highly valued in U.S. art galleries, museums, and interior design markets.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (1–5 pieces) – Ship via air freight in custom wooden crates.
- Bulk (5+ pieces) – Ocean freight in padded crates with insurance.
Cultural Heritage Permit Required: Some historical artworks require permits from the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) before export.
Tip: Get appraisals and authenticity certificates to increase artwork value for collectors.
16. Gemstones (Tourmaline, Sapphire, Aquamarine, Garnet)
Sourced from: Nasarawa, Kaduna, Bauchi, Taraba
Why Americans Love It: Nigerian gemstones are in high demand in the U.S. jewelry industry, especially for ethical and conflict-free sourcing.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (small stones, 100g–500g) – Use DHL Express with insurance.
- Bulk (1kg+ raw gemstones) – Use ocean freight with secured handling.
Export License Required: All mineral exports require an export license from the Nigerian Mining Cadastre Office (MCO).
Tip: Work with U.S. jewelers through platforms like Etsy and eBay for direct sales.
17. Moringa Powder & Herbal Products
Sourced from: Northern & South-Western Nigeria
Why Americans Love It: Moringa is classified as a superfood, making it popular in health-conscious and vegan communities.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (250g–5kg packs) – Use air freight in resealable packaging.
- Bulk (100kg–500kg drums) – Use ocean freight with moisture barriers.
FDA Requirement: Moringa powder is classified as a dietary supplement and must be FDA-registered.
Tip: Label as “USDA Organic Certified” (if applicable) to increase trust and sales.
18. Ginger & Turmeric
Sourced from: Kaduna, Kano, Plateau
Why Americans Love It: Used in spices, herbal medicine, and wellness drinks.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (1kg–20kg bags) – Air freight in vacuum-sealed bags.
- Bulk (500kg–2 tons) – Palletized ocean freight.
FDA Requirement: Must be FDA-registered and free from aflatoxins and contaminants.
Tip: Export in dried powder form for higher market value.
19. African Beaded Jewelry
Sourced from: Abuja, Lagos, Benin
Why Americans Love It: Handmade African jewelry is popular in U.S. festivals, craft markets, and Afrocentric fashion stores.
Can be shipped via:
- Retail (1–10 sets) – Use DHL, USPS, or UPS.
- Bulk (100+ sets) – Use Sea freight with padded packaging.
Tip: Partner with U.S. brands on Etsy and Shopify for higher exposure.
20. Palm Kernel Oil
Sourced from: Delta, Edo, Ondo
Why Americans in Diaspora Love It: Used in soaps, cosmetics, and biofuel production.
Shipping Guide:
- Retail (1L–20L bottles) – Use courier services.
- Bulk (200L+ drums or IBC tanks) – Ocean freight in food-grade containers.
FDA Requirement: Must be registered as an industrial or food-grade oil.
Tip: Highlight cold-pressed extraction methods to attract organic and natural product buyers.
Understanding FDA Regulations for Nigerian Exports
Which Nigerian Exportable Products Need FDA Approval?
- Food products (e.g: dried plantains, hibiscus tea, spices)
- Skincare & cosmetics (e.g: Shea butter, African black soap)
- Dietary supplements & herbal products.
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain FDA Approval
Getting FDA approval can sound complicated, but here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Step 1: Register Your Facility with the FDA
- Visit the FDA website and finish the Food Facility Registration form.
- Get assigned a U.S. agent (mandatory for foreign exporters).
- Get your FDA Registration Number (this proves your compliance).
Step 2: Meet Food Safety Requirements
- Make sure your product meets FDA’s food safety standards.
- Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to prevent contamination.
- Implement Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) if required.
Step 3: Label Your Products Correctly
- The label must be in English and include ingredients, nutrition facts, and allergen warnings.
- Check that your claims (e.g: “organic” or “low fat”) meet FDA guidelines.
Step 4: Send Prior Notice Before Shipping
Before shipping your food product, you must file a Prior Notice (PN) with FDA. This lets the agency know your shipment is coming.
Step 5: Renew Your Registration Biennially
To keep your FDA registration active, you must renew it every two years. Forgetting this step can lead to delays or shipment rejections.
Tip: African Import Export Solutions helps Nigerian exporters with FDA facility registration and compliant labeling, so you don’t have to stress about regulations.
How African Import Export Services (AIES) Makes Exporting Easy
Exporting can feel overwhelming, but African Import Export Solutions can handle everything for you:
- FDA Registration Assistance – Get help with U.S. food and cosmetics compliance.
- Sourcing & Quality Control – Ensure your goods meet export standards.
- Customs Clearance – Work with U.S. brokers for smooth entry.
- Shipping Optimization – Choose cost-effective air or sea freight.
Conclusion
From Adire Fabrics to Shea butter, the global market is waiting for your Nigerian-made products. With African Import Export Services (AIES) handling the logistics, compliance, and customs aspect, you can focus on scaling your business and not stressing over the hassles of documentation or other trivial matters.
Ready to start exporting?
FAQs
1. How much does shipping from Nigeria to the USA cost?
Air Freight: Depending on product type and urgency.
Sea Freight: Depending on volume and shipping route.
2. What is the cheapest way to export goods to the USA?
Ocean freight (LCL or FCL) is the most cost-effective for large shipments.
Consolidated air freight is ideal for smaller shipments under 100kg.
3. Do I need FDA approval to export food and cosmetics to the USA?
- Yes, the FDA regulates food, beverages, cosmetics, and dietary supplements.
- Your products must be FDA-registered and properly labeled before shipment.
AIES can assist with FDA registration to ensure compliance.
4. What Nigerian food products are allowed in the USA?
- ✔ Dried foods (e.g., plantain chips, garri, hibiscus)
- ✔ Packaged and sealed spices
- ✔ Palm oil (labeled correctly as food-grade)
- ✔ Cashew nuts, shea butter (for consumption)
Not allowed: Fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, unprocessed dairy, raw meat.
5. What documents do I need to export goods from Nigeria to the USA?
Required documents include:
- ✔ Commercial Invoice (lists items, quantity, and value)
- ✔ Certificate of Origin (proves the product is from Nigeria)
- ✔ Phytosanitary Certificate (for agricultural products like cocoa, hibiscus)
- ✔ FDA Registration (for food, cosmetics, supplements)
- ✔ NAFDAC Approval (for food and beauty products)
- ✔ Packing List (for customs verification)
AIES can generate 90% of these documents for you!
6. Can I export fresh fruits or vegetables to the USA?
No, the U.S. bans fresh agricultural products from most African countries due to pest control and safety concerns.
However, you can export dried, processed, or frozen versions (e.g., dried plantains, hibiscus).
Tip: FDA requires lab testing for processed food imports.
7. How do I find U.S. buyers for my Nigerian products?
Best platforms for finding buyers:
- Etsy (for handmade crafts, jewelry, Adire fabrics)
- Amazon Handmade (for organic skincare, shea butter, black soap)
- Alibaba & Global Sources (for bulk food and agricultural exports)
- African stores, supermarkets, and beauty salons in the U.S.
African Import Export Solutions can connect you with U.S. importers and distributors.
8. Can I export Nigerian artwork like Benin bronzes?
Yes, but only with a Cultural Heritage Export Permit from the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM).
Tip: Ensure you get an authenticity certificate to increase the artwork’s value.
9. How long does shipping from Nigeria to the USA take?
✈ Air freight: 2–5 business days
Sea freight: 4–6 weeks
Tip: Plan ahead for seasonal demand, ship early for Christmas, Black Friday, and U.S. summer festivals.
10. Can I ship cosmetics like black soap and Shea Butter?
Yes, but they must meet FDA cosmetic labeling rules and be free from banned ingredients, and you must list all ingredients clearly on the product label.
11. How do I package my goods for export?
- For food items: Use vacuum-sealed, moisture-proof bags.
- For fragile goods: Use bubble wrap and foam padding.
- For oil-based products: Use leak-proof, BPA-free plastic or glass bottles.
African Import Export Solutions offers professional packaging services to help your products meet U.S. import standards.
12. What happens if my shipment gets held at U.S. customs?
Common reasons for delays:
- Missing documents
- Incorrect labeling
- Unpaid import duties
African Import Export Solutions pre-clears shipments with U.S. brokers to avoid customs delays.
13. What U.S. states have the highest demand for Nigerian products?
Top states for Nigerian exports:
- ✔ Texas (Houston, Dallas) – High Nigerian population
- ✔ New York & New Jersey – Strong African grocery market
- ✔ Georgia (Atlanta) – Growing West African community
- ✔ California (Los Angeles, San Francisco) – High demand for African fashion and skincare
14. Do I need an export license to sell Nigerian gemstones?
Yes, Nigerian law requires a Mineral Export License for all gemstones.
African Import Export Solutions helps with mining export documentation and customs clearance.
15. Can I export palm oil to the USA?
Yes, but it must be properly labeled and stored in food-grade containers.
Palm oil mixed with other ingredients may require FDA testing.
16. What payment methods should I accept from U.S. buyers?
Secure options include:
- ✔ PayPal
- ✔ Bank Wire Transfers
- ✔ Zelle
Tip: Avoid Western Union for high-value transactions to prevent fraud.
17. Do I have to pay U.S. taxes when exporting?
No, but your buyer may have to pay U.S. import duties.
18. Can I ship multiple products in one container?
Yes! Consolidating shipments is cost-effective, hence, African Import Export Solutions offers group shipping services to save exporters money.
19. How do I insure my exported goods?
Cargo insurance covers:
- ✔ Theft
- ✔ Damage
- ✔ Loss in transit
African Import Export Solutions provides low-cost insurance options for exporters.
20. What is the first step to start exporting from Nigeria to the USA?
It includes:
- Step 1: Research demand for your product in the U.S.
- Step 2: Register your business with NEPC (Nigerian Export Promotion Council).
- Step 3: Get required export documents (NAFDAC, FDA, Certificate of Origin, etc.).
- Step 4: Choose a reliable shipping partner (AIES handles everything from sourcing to customs clearance).
Leave a Reply