Nigeria’s corn imports set to jump sixfold to 900 thsd tons

Nigeria could increase corn imports sixfold to 900 thsd tons in 2026/27, according to FAS USDA. The increase is expected to reflect lower domestic production, rising consumption and possible government purchases aimed at curbing food inflation.

Corn production is forecast at 11.1 mln tons, down 5% y/y. At the same time, consumption could rise 3% to 12.1 mln tons, driven mainly by stronger demand from the poultry, aquaculture and livestock sectors.

Lower output is linked to higher operating costs, volatile or weak farmgate prices and reduced incentives for farmers. Some producers are expected to cut planted area or move away from corn production altogether.

Nigeria’s rice production is also forecast to decline 6% to 8.8 mln tons, while consumption is expected to rise 6% to 9.1 mln tons. As a result, rice imports are projected to increase 11% y/y to 3.1 mln tons.

Wheat production is expected at just 120 thsd tons, down 8% from last year. Imports, however, may decline by around 5% to 5.6 mln tons due to higher import prices, weaker consumer purchasing power and logistics disruptions affecting Black Sea shipments.

Tags: Nigeria, corn, imports