West Africa trade mission 2027

West Africa is one of the world’s most dynamic markets, encompassing over 450 million consumers in key countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Senegal. The regional food and services market is showing steady growth in 2027, with the food sector in Nigeria alone exceeding US$230 billion. Due to rapid urbanisation and limited local processing capacity, the region remains critically dependent on imports of basic and processed foods, whilst the emergence of a large middle class in major cities (Lagos, Abidjan, Accra) is creating a steady demand for high-quality goods with a long shelf life.

The most promising categories for Ukrainian exports are dairy products (particularly milk powder and butter), poultry, eggs, confectionery, tomato paste, vegetable oils and flour. Among the fastest-growing niches are snack products, single-serve drinks and processed cereal products, which are adapted to the local trend for ‘street food’ and convenient consumption. West African consumers are increasingly looking for recognisable brands and safety standards, yet remain highly price-sensitive and focused on packaging formats, favouring small portions (sachet-economy) and affordable pricing.

Participation in the 2027 trade mission provides an opportunity to establish direct contacts with the region’s largest importers and distributors, as well as to gain a foothold in modern retail outlets, which are rapidly replacing traditional markets. The mission programme includes familiarisation with the specifics of certification in each individual country, an examination of port logistics on the West Coast, and the selection of local partners to overcome bureaucratic barriers. For Ukrainian companies ready to offer competitive pricing for large volumes and flexibility in packaging, the West African market is a strategic springboard for large-scale export expansion for decades to come.