Cassava Chip Export: Expert Urges Niger Processors to Tap into Booming Global Market

Processors of cassava in Niger State have been urged to diversify into the production of cassava chips to take advantage of the rising global demand, particularly in European markets.

The call was made by Jamu Salka, a cassava chip expert, during a training workshop for local cassava processors organized by the Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) in collaboration with Qu-VIRO Nigeria Ltd.

Salka noted that cassava chips are increasingly in demand globally due to their versatility and wide range of industrial and commercial uses.

“There is a significant opportunity for growth and innovation in the cassava chip market, particularly in regions like Africa and Asia,” he said. “Beyond snacks, cassava chips are used for animal feed, biofuel, and even in paper and textile manufacturing.”

He added that the demand is also being driven by the rise in gluten-free and vegan diets, which favour cassava-based products.

Also speaking at the event, Hajiya Hadizat Isah, Niger State Coordinator for VCDP, said the training was designed to build local capacity in producing high-quality cassava chips that meet international export standards.

She revealed that the agency had recently received a request from an international off-taker for 300,000 tonnes of cassava chips, a demand that cannot currently be met due to the state’s limited output and product focus on traditional staples such as garri and cassava flour.

“This presents an economic opportunity that processors in Niger State can no longer afford to ignore,” she said. “By moving into cassava chip production, our local processors stand to benefit from foreign exchange earnings and enhanced livelihoods.”

Participants, drawn from various local government areas and largely made up of traditional garri and cassava flour processors, were trained in cleaning, peeling, chipping, drying, packaging, and storage techniques in line with global standards.

Several beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the training and pledged to adopt the new methods in their operations to boost quality and open access to export markets.

The initiative is expected to create jobs, stimulate rural economies, and position Niger State as a key player in the global cassava value chain.