How to Import Rice to Nigeria from India: A Complete Guide

Published on May 15, 2026 • By M Sai Satya Abhilash

Nigeria is one of the largest markets for imported rice in Africa. With a strong demand for high-quality parboiled rice, many Nigerian businesses look to India as a reliable sourcing destination. In this guide, we break down the necessary steps and documentation required to successfully import Indian rice into Nigeria.

1. Find a Reliable Exporter

Your first step is finding an APEDA-registered Indian exporter, like Budha Global Exports, that specializes in the Nigerian market. The preferred variety for Nigeria is typically Swarna Parboiled Rice (5% broken), known for its cooking quality and taste.

2. Obtain Necessary Import Permits

Before placing an order, ensure your business is registered with the Nigerian Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). You will also need to engage with a local bank to initiate a Form M (mandatory for all imports into Nigeria) via the Central Bank of Nigeria's single window system.

3. SONCAP Certification

All regulated products imported into Nigeria require a SONCAP (Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Program) certificate. Your Indian exporter must provide a Product Certificate (PC) for the rice, which you will use to generate your Form M. After shipping, the exporter will obtain a SONCAP Certificate (SC) which is required for customs clearance at the destination port.

4. Agree on Payment Terms

The most secure payment methods for international trade are Letters of Credit (LC) and Telegraphic Transfers (TT). Ensure you agree on clear terms (FOB or CIF) with your supplier. CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) is often preferred as the exporter handles the shipping and insurance up to the Nigerian port (e.g., Apapa or Tin Can Island).

5. Shipping and Documentation

Once the cargo is loaded onto the vessel, the exporter will send you the original shipping documents, which include:

Bill of Lading (B/L)
Commercial Invoice
Packing List
Certificate of Origin
Phytosanitary Certificate
Fumigation Certificate
SONCAP Certificate

6. Customs Clearance in Nigeria

Upon arrival at the port, hand over your documents to a licensed customs clearing agent in Nigeria. They will process the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR), pay necessary duties, and clear your consignment for delivery to your warehouse.

Looking for a reliable rice supplier for Nigeria? Contact Budha Global Exports today for competitive FOB and CIF prices.