Hibiscus Flower Export

What It Is

Hibiscus Flower, also known as Zobo Leaf in West Africa and Roselle globally, is a tropical plant cultivated mainly for its bright red calyces. These dried petals are used worldwide in making herbal teas, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food colorants. Its rich antioxidants, vitamins, and natural tart flavor make it a highly demanded export commodity.

Export Significance

Nigeria is one of the leading exporters of hibiscus flowers, with strong demand in Mexico, Germany, USA, China, and other European countries. The global hibiscus market is steadily growing due to increasing interest in natural and healthy products. Exporting hibiscus provides vast opportunities for agro-exporters, as it is a non-perishable cash crop with multiple industrial uses.

Export Forms

• Whole Dried Hibiscus Calyces

• Powdered Hibiscus (used in teas, beverages, and cosmetics)

• Hibiscus Extracts/Concentrates

Industrial & Commercial Uses

• Food & Beverage Industry: Hibiscus tea, wine, juice, jams, flavoring, natural food colorant.

• Pharmaceutical Industry: Blood pressure management, cholesterol control, weight loss supplements.

• Cosmetic Industry: Natural dye, hair care, and skin care formulations.

• Nutritional Products: Functional foods and herbal medicine.

Packaging Options

• 25kg, 50kg polypropylene bags with inner lining.

• Carton/Box packaging for powdered hibiscus.

• Export-ready in fumigated and moisture-proof sacks.

Export Specifications

• Type: Dried Hibiscus Sabdariffa Calyces

• Moisture Content: ≤ 10%

• Purity: 95% minimum (free from stones, sand, foreign matter)

• Color: Deep red/burgundy

• Admixture: ≤ 2%

• Ash Content: ≤ 12%

• Packaging: Clean, dry, fumigated bags or cartons

• Storage Condition: Cool, dry place, free from pests and mold

Key Importing Countries

• Mexico (largest global importer)

• Germany

• United States

• China

• Poland

• United Arab Emirates

Why Hibiscus is a Lucrative Export Commodity

• High global demand, especially for herbal and organic products.

• Long shelf life when properly dried and stored.

• Multipurpose uses across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

• Growing trend toward natural health products worldwide.