By Charles Pemu 
The Nigerian government has announced a six-month suspension of raw shea exports, a policy aimed at boosting local processing and increasing the nation’s share of the global shea market. The directive, approved by President Bola Tinubu, is intended to curb the export of raw materials, which has prevented Nigeria from fully capitalizing on its position as the world’s leading shea producer.
According to a statement from the President, Nigeria produces nearly 40% of the world’s shea supply but captures less than 1% of its $6.5 billion global market value. This “imbalance,” the government says, ends with this new policy. The suspension is expected to secure a steady supply for local processors, create jobs, and protect a value chain where 95% of the pickers are women.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has been tasked with working alongside stakeholders to rapidly expand local processing capacity and ensure the reform translates into lasting prosperity. The government also plans to explore new market access, including in Brazil and other international destinations.
The new policy is a central part of the administration’s strategy to “create value at home, compete abroad, and deliver prosperity under the Renewed Hope Agenda.”