Which Rice Grades Do West African Markets Prefer?
| Country | Preferred Rice | Port |
|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | IR-64 Parboiled 5% / 25% broken; PR-11 Parboiled | Apapa (Lagos), Onne |
| Benin | 25% broken parboiled, IR-64 (re-export hub) | Cotonou |
| Togo | 100% broken, IR-64 parboiled | Lomé |
| Ghana | Parboiled 5%, long grain | Tema |
| Senegal | Broken rice, long grain | Dakar |
Complete Document Checklist for West Africa
- Bill of Lading: Original 3/3 set
- Commercial Invoice + Packing List
- Certificate of Origin (APEDA-issued)
- Phytosanitary Certificate + Fumigation Certificate
- SGS Inspection Certificate: Required for Nigeria (SON) and Ghana
- NAFDAC Registration (Nigeria): Buyer's Nigerian importer must hold this
- Form M (Nigeria): Pre-shipment import licence from Nigerian bank — MANDATORY
Nigeria-Specific: Form M and Payment
A Form M (import declaration form) must be obtained from a Nigerian commercial bank BEFORE shipment begins. The Form M number must appear on all shipping documents. Without it, goods cannot clear Nigerian customs. Payment: Irrevocable LC most common for first transactions; TT (30% advance + 70% scan BL) for established buyers.
Common Mistakes West African Buyers Make
- Not confirming NAFDAC/SON registration before shipping — goods detained on arrival
- Not opening Form M before shipment — customs clearance impossible in Nigeria
- Not requesting SGS inspection certificate — required for Nigeria and Ghana
- Paying 100% advance to an unknown supplier — always use LC for first transactions