COFFEE INSPECTION FOR EXPORT REGULATIONS
Regulation · Trade
Regulations that require inspection and certification of coffee for export, setting standards for quality and purity. They target coffee farmers and exporters. This upholds Nigeria's reputation in international markets.
What Is This Policy?
These Regulations prescribe the inspection, grading, and certification procedures for coffee exported from Nigeria, setting the quality standards for moisture content, defects, and purity that consignments must meet.
Who Does It Target?
Coffee farmers, processors, and exporters Coffee cooperative groups involved in export supply chains Federal produce inspection officers responsible for grading coffee consignments
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
To ensure that Nigerian coffee exports consistently meet international quality benchmarks, protecting Nigeria's reputation in global coffee markets and supporting fair prices for coffee farmers.
Key Features
Grade Definitions: Defines the official export grades for Nigerian coffee, both arabica and robusta, with clear technical criteria Moisture Content Standards: Sets maximum permissible moisture content for coffee at each grade to prevent mould growth and quality deterioration during shipping Defect Counts: Prescribes the maximum number of defective beans, stones, and foreign matter permitted in each grade category Screen Size Requirements: Sets minimum bean screen size standards as an indicator of coffee maturity and quality Mandatory Certification: Requires all export coffee consignments to carry a valid federal inspection and grade certificate before customs clearance
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active; enforced at coffee processing and export centres, particularly in Cross River, Taraba, and Plateau states Coverage: Nationwide at coffee-growing regions and export points Funding: Federal produce inspection fees
How to Access
Coffee exporters must submit all consignments for federal inspection and certification before export. Consignment ready for inspection at the designated coffee inspection point Valid exporter licence or registration Payment of applicable inspection and certification fees Application method: Federal Produce Inspection Service coffee inspection offices in coffee-producing states and at export seaports and airports
Official Resources
Website: www.fmard.gov.ng
Legal Framework
Issued under the regulatory powers of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) pursuant to the NEPC Act. Operates alongside the Agriculture (Control of Importation) Act, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Act 2015, and the Produce Inspection Act. Aligns with the International Coffee Organization (ICO) standards on coffee quality, the African Union Common Position on agricultural commodities, and WTO SPS measures.