Yam and Yam Flour Export

What It Is

• Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is a staple tuber crop widely consumed for its high carbohydrate content, rich energy value, and cultural significance in food preparation. It is a versatile food item enjoyed in both fresh and processed forms, and it plays a major role in diets across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Europe.

• Yam Flour is a processed form of yam made by peeling, slicing, parboiling, drying, and milling yam tubers into fine powder. It is a popular ingredient used to prepare amala, instant pounded yam flour, and other delicacies

Nutritional Value

• Yam: Rich in carbohydrates, dietary fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, potassium, and manganese. Known for providing sustained energy and aiding digestion.

• Yam Flour: Retains most of the nutrients in yam while offering longer shelf life, convenience, and easy transportation. It is gluten-free, making it suitable for special diets.

Forms Available for Export

• Fresh Yam Tubers (whole, cleaned, and packaged)

• Yam Flour (milled, well-packaged, and sealed)

• Instant Pounded Yam Flour (processed for easy preparation)

Uses

• Culinary:

  • Fresh yam can be boiled, roasted, fried, or pounded.

  • Yam flour is used in preparing traditional meals like amala and instant pounded yam.

• Industrial:

  • Used as a raw material in the food processing industry.

  • Has potential application in starch and ethanol production.

Export Packaging

• Fresh Yam: Cartons, mesh bags, or crates (usually 5kg–25kg packs) with ventilation to prevent spoilage.

• Yam Flour: Sealed in food-grade bags (1kg, 5kg, 10kg, and 25kg). Vacuum-sealed packaging is recommended to maintain freshness.

Export Market Demand

• High demand in Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East where African and Caribbean communities reside.

• Yam flour has become increasingly popular due to its long shelf life, convenience, and easy adaptation to modern lifestyles.

Export Potential & Value

• Global yam trade is expanding, with growing demand for ethnic foods and gluten-free alternatives.

• Yam and yam flour export offers strong profitability due to steady consumption across continents.

HS Code

• Yam (Fresh Tubers): 07149090

• Yam Flour: 110620

Summary: Exporting Yam and Yam Flour offers a dual advantage: fresh tubers cater to traditional consumers, while yam flour appeals to modern, convenience-driven buyers. With proper processing, packaging, and marketing, it is a highly profitable export commodity.