Palm Kernel Shell Charcoal

What It Is

Palm Kernel Shell Charcoal is a type of biomass charcoal produced from the hard shell of the oil palm seed after the extraction of palm kernel oil. It is a renewable energy source and has become a valuable substitute for traditional fossil fuels due to its high calorific value and eco-friendly properties.

The shells are carbonized through controlled burning to produce charcoal that burns longer, cleaner, and with less smoke compared to regular wood charcoal.

Why It Is Important in Global Trade

Palm Kernel Shell Charcoal is increasingly in demand in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East for industrial and household use. With the global push for sustainable and renewable energy, this product is gaining recognition as an alternative fuel for power plants, steel industries, and domestic heating.

Exporting Palm Kernel Shell Charcoal provides both foreign exchange earnings and supports environmental sustainability by turning agricultural waste into valuable products.

Export Uses

• Industrial Fuel: Widely used in cement factories, power plants, and steel industries due to its high calorific value.

• Household Fuel: Used in many households as cooking fuel because it burns longer with less smoke.

• Activated Carbon Production: Used in the production of activated carbon for water and air purification.

• Biofuel Production: Processed further into bio-coal and briquettes for renewable energy.

• Soil Amendment: Sometimes applied as biochar to improve soil fertility.

International Market Demand

• Asia (Japan, South Korea, China, Malaysia): High demand for industrial fuel and renewable energy.

• Europe (Germany, UK, Netherlands, Italy): Strong demand for eco-friendly alternatives in manufacturing and energy industries.

• Middle East (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey): Demand for industrial and household heating fuel.

Packaging for Export

Export packaging must meet international standards to maintain quality during shipment:

• Bags: 25kg, 50kg, or 80kg PP woven bags.

• Bulk: Jumbo bags of 500kg – 1 ton.

• Containers: Standard 20ft container carries approx. 20–23 MT, while a 40ft container carries approx. 40–45 MT depending on bag size and compaction.

Export Specifications

• Moisture Content: 5–10% max

• Ash Content: 3–5% max

• Fixed Carbon: 70–75%

• Volatile Matter: 15–20%

• Calorific Value: 4,200 – 4,800 kcal/kg

• Size: 3–5 cm average (depending on buyer’s requirement)

• Impurities: Free from stone, sand, or other waste materials

HS Code

• Palm Kernel Shell Charcoal HS Code: 4402.90.00

Steps to Export Palm Kernel Shell Charcoal

1. Sourcing: Buy from palm oil mills where palm kernel shells are produced as a by-product.

2. Carbonization: Burn under controlled conditions to produce charcoal.

3. Screening & Drying: Ensure uniform size, reduce moisture, and remove impurities.

4. Packaging: Bag and label according to international standards.

5. Quality Certification: Obtain SGS or equivalent inspection reports for international buyers.

6. Shipping: Use FOB (Free On Board) or CIF (Cost, Insurance & Freight) depending on buyer agreement.

Why Importers Buy from Nigeria

• Abundant raw materials due to Nigeria’s large oil palm industry.

• Competitive prices compared to other charcoal types.

• High calorific value and environmentally friendly product.

• Availability in large commercial quantities.

Palm Kernel Shell Charcoal export is a profitable business with growing demand across the globe. Exporters who can guarantee consistent quality, proper packaging, and timely delivery will thrive in this industry.