Cloves

What It Is

Clove is the aromatic flower bud of a tree in the family Myrtaceae, Syzygium aromaticum. Native to Indonesia, it is widely used as a spice in cuisines around the world, known for its intense flavor and fragrance.

In Nigeria, cloves are cultivated in small to medium-scale farms, especially in the southern and middle-belt regions, including Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and parts of Kogi State.

Export Forms

  • Whole dried cloves (hand-picked or machine-cleaned)

  • Clove powder

  • Clove oil (for industrial uses)

Packaging for Export

  • 25 kg or 50 kg polypropylene bags (lined with polythene to maintain aroma)

  • Vacuum-sealed food-grade pouches for powdered form

  • Drums or jerry cans for clove oil

All packages should be well-sealed, properly labeled with origin, batch number, grade, and net weight, and comply with international phytosanitary standards.

Uses

  • Food industry: As a spice in cooking, baking, beverages (e.g. tea, mulled wine)

  • Pharmaceuticals: Used for its analgesic, antiseptic, and antimicrobial properties (especially in dental care)

  • Cosmetics: As a key ingredient in perfumery and skincare products

  • Essential oils: For therapeutic and aromatherapy applications

  • Traditional medicine: Used in herbal remedies

Target Markets

  • Europe: United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands, Spain

  • Asia: India, Pakistan, Malaysia, UAE

  • North America: United States, Canada

  • Africa: South Africa, Ghana, Kenya

HS Code for Cloves

  • 0907.10 – Whole cloves

  • 0907.20 – Ground or crushed cloves

Export Requirements

  1. Business Registration (CAC in Nigeria)

  2. Export License – From NEPC (Nigerian Export Promotion Council)

  3. Quality Control Certification – NAFDAC or SON for food-grade products

  4. Phytosanitary Certificate – From Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS)

  5. Certificate of Origin

  6. Proper Documentation – Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, etc.

Tips for Exporters

  • Source only mature, fully dried, hand-picked cloves to meet export standards.

  • Ensure low moisture content (< 12%) to prevent mold and deterioration.

  • Avoid smoky or dusty drying methods to maintain the product’s natural aroma.

  • Partner with freight forwarders experienced in agricultural exports.

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