Food Security: Niger Bans Rice, Cereal Exports Over Domestic Supply Concerns
…Exempts Mali, Burkina Faso
Niger’s military authorities have implemented a ban on rice and cereal exports to all countries, except neighboring Burkina Faso and Mali, in a bid to safeguard domestic market supply and accessibility of essential goods.
This decision, made by General Abdourahamane Tiani, aims to address the high inflation rates affecting certain food items. The banned products include, Rice, millet, sorghum, cowpea, and corn.
The exemptions for Burkina Faso and Mali, both ruled by military leaders, underscore the regional cooperation and strategic alliances between these nations.
Niger, a significant supplier of cereals to neighbouring Nigeria, has faced market disruptions and high inflation despite the lifting of ECOWAS sanctions in February. To mitigate these challenges, the agriculture minister plans to purchase part of farmers’ harvests to fill the country’s emergency reserves.
The ban comes amidst severe flooding across Niger, which has displaced over 1.5 million people and claimed 339 lives. Despite these challenges, Niger hopes for a successful agricultural harvest.
Violators of the export ban will face sanctions and penalties, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring domestic food security.
