Turmeric Export

Agricultural Commodities, Spices Exports / By

What It Is

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a root spice widely known for its deep golden-yellow color, earthy flavor, and powerful medicinal properties. It is one of the most valuable spices in global trade, often referred to as “the golden spice” due to its high curcumin content.

Nigeria is emerging as a competitive exporter of turmeric, supplying both raw dried roots and powdered forms to international markets.

Global Demand

  • Turmeric has a high global demand in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.

  • It is used as a culinary spice, a coloring agent, and a pharmaceutical ingredient.

  • The global turmeric market is projected to keep expanding due to the rise in demand for natural health products.

Uses of Turmeric

  1. Food Industry – As a spice, flavoring, and coloring in curries, sauces, soups, beverages, and snacks.

  2. Pharmaceuticals – Used in herbal medicine for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

  3. Cosmetics & Personal Care – Incorporated in creams, soaps, and skincare for its skin-brightening and anti-aging effects.

  4. Dyeing & Textile – Natural yellow dye for fabrics.

  5. Nutraceuticals – Key ingredient in supplements, capsules, and teas.

Export Forms

  • Fresh Roots

  • Dried Whole Roots

  • Powdered Turmeric (Ground)

  • Turmeric Extracts / Oleoresins (Curcumin content 90–95%)

Export Specifications

  • Moisture Content: ≤ 12%

  • Curcumin Content: 2–6% (higher grade preferred in pharmaceuticals)

  • Impurities: ≤ 1%

  • Form: Whole dried rhizomes or fine powder (80–100 mesh)

  • Packaging:

    • 25kg / 50kg polypropylene bags

    • Vacuum-sealed packs for powdered turmeric

  • Storage: Cool, dry, and moisture-free environment

Packaging & Logistics

  • Bulk Packaging: Polypropylene bags or jute sacks lined with polyethylene

  • Powder Packaging: Sealed food-grade packaging to prevent contamination and loss of aroma

  • Shipment: Usually exported in 20ft or 40ft containers

  • Preservation: Proper drying to avoid mold growth during transit

HS Code

  • 091030 – Turmeric (whole, crushed, or ground)

Market Opportunities

  • Rising popularity of organic turmeric in Europe and the USA.

  • Strong demand from India, UAE, Germany, UK, USA, and China.

  • Growing nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries increase bulk purchase.

  • Niche demand for Nigerian turmeric powder due to its unique flavor profile.

Turmeric is one of Nigeria’s untapped goldmines in the spice export sector. Exporters who invest in proper drying, processing, and international standard packaging can command premium prices in the global market.

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