The government of Niger has reiterated its stance on prohibiting the export of certain essential cereals. According to a communiqué issued on October 21, 2026, by the Minister of Trade and Industry, Abdoulaye Seydou, the export of rice, millet, maize, sorghum, and cowpeas remains strictly forbidden. This measure, initially implemented to safeguard the country's food security, continues to be in effect.
The ban on exporting these cereals was first introduced through decree n°0104/MCI/SG/DGC/DCI/LCVC/DL on October 16, 2024. The decree explicitly prohibits the export of paddy rice, polished rice, millet, sorghum, cowpeas, and maize. The primary goal of this policy is to ensure a consistent supply of these staple foods in the domestic market, thereby protecting the nation's food security.
Minister Abdoulaye Seydou has appealed to the patriotism and sense of responsibility of traders and economic operators in Niger. He urged them to adhere strictly to the provisions of the decree and refrain from engaging in practices that could undermine its implementation. The government is counting on the cooperation of these stakeholders to guarantee the availability of these essential cereals for the local population.
To enforce this measure, the government has instructed its agents, including those from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, defense and security forces, and other competent services, to maintain rigorous surveillance across the entire territory. Any individuals or entities found to be contravening this ban will face the consequences as stipulated by the relevant regulations.
In an effort to encourage public participation in monitoring and reporting any breaches of this export ban, the government has made a toll-free hotline, 808, available to citizens. This initiative aims to facilitate the reporting of fraudulent practices or attempts to circumvent the ban, allowing for swift action to be taken against offenders.
The Nigerien government has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing the needs of its population. By maintaining the ban on the export of these key cereals, the authorities aim to ensure that the produce from Niger is primarily used to feed its citizens. This policy underscores the government's focus on food security and its determination to protect the well-being of the Nigerien people.
The restrictions on the export of rice, millet, maize, sorghum, and cowpeas will continue to be enforced, with the government working to balance the needs of local markets and the economic interests of operators. The situation will be closely monitored to assess the impact of these measures on food availability and the overall economy of Niger.
Key points
- The Nigerien government has banned the export of rice, millet, maize, sorghum, and cowpeas to ensure food security.
- The ban, in place since October 2024, aims to guarantee a consistent supply of staple foods in the domestic market.
- A toll-free hotline, 808, has been made available for citizens to report any breaches of the export ban.
