Gum Arabic Export

What is Gum Arabic?

Gum Arabic, also known as Acacia Gum, is a natural gum exudate obtained from the hardened sap of acacia trees, primarily Acacia senegal and Acacia seyal. It is a unique, water-soluble, edible gum that has been used for centuries across industries ranging from food and beverage to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

It is prized for its binding, emulsifying, stabilizing, and film-forming properties, making it indispensable in various manufacturing processes.

Forms of Export

Gum Arabic is usually exported in:

• Raw lumps (unprocessed)

• Graded & cleaned form (Grades 1, 2, and 3)

• Powdered form (processed and refined)

Major Sources

Nigeria is one of the top producers of Gum Arabic globally, along with Sudan and Chad. Nigeria produces Grade 1 (Acacia Senegal), Grade 2 (Acacia Seyal), and Grade 3 (Mixed Grades), making it a key supplier in the global market.

Industrial Uses of Gum Arabic

1. Food & Beverage Industry

   • Stabilizer in soft drinks (Coca-Cola, Pepsi, etc.)

   • Used in candy, confectionery, and chewing gum production

   • Thickening agent in sauces and syrups

2. Pharmaceuticals

   • Used in making capsules, tablets, and lozenges

   • Serves as a binder and coating agent

3. Cosmetics

   • Ingredient in lotions, creams, and mascaras

   • Used in adhesives for false eyelashes and other beauty products

4. Printing & Ink Industry

   • Used in lithographic printing and watercolors

   • Stabilizer in printing inks

5. Other Uses

   • Textile and leather finishing

   • Adhesive production

   • Traditional medicine

Global Demand and Market

The global gum arabic market is estimated at over USD 400 million annually, with rising demand in the beverage, food processing, and pharmaceutical industries. Europe and North America remain the largest importers, while the Middle East and Asia are witnessing growing demand.

Packaging for Export

• 50kg jute bags (common for raw form)

• 25kg – 50kg paper/polypropylene bags (for processed powder)

• Airtight containers for premium-grade gum

Export HS Code

• HS Code: 13012000 – Gum Arabic

Why Export Gum Arabic?

• Nigeria holds a competitive advantage due to abundant natural resources.

• Gum Arabic is a non-oil foreign exchange earner.

• Consistent and growing international demand.

• Opportunities for value addition (processing into powder form yields higher returns).

In summary, Gum Arabic is a high-value export product with applications across multiple industries worldwide. Its versatility, high demand, and steady global market make it one of Nigeria’s most lucrative agricultural exports.