According to a study sponsored by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, the quantity of dried and smoked catfish, tilapia and other types of fish exported from West Africa to the United Kingdom was estimated at over 500 tonnes per year; with a retail value of nearly $20 million.
Nigeria alone exports about 5 tonnes of smoked fish per month (via airfreight). Other major exporting countries are Ghana, the Ivory Coast, Senegal and Cameroon.
However, with stricter regulations on food imported into the US and Europe, Africans are finding it difficult to exploit the million-dollar foreign market for smoked and dried fish.
This article reveals the secrets of the trade and how you can take advantage.
A quick introduction to the dried and smoked fish export business in Africa
The huge trade in smoked-dried fish is a consequence of the growing demand by the increasing number of Africans living in the diaspora. The US and Europe remain the major destinations for Africans who venture abroad.
As a result of this transcontinental migration, and a growing appreciation for African flavours and food, the demand for dried and smoked fish appears to be going through the roof.
While it was easy in recent years to send container loads of smoked fish across the seas to the US and Europe, increasing health and bioterrorism concerns have led to very strict rules on imported food and animal produce.
We shall examine the two largest markets for dry and smoked fish, their strict regulations and how you can meet them to make money from these huge markets.
It is important to note that up to 40 percent of smoked fish exported from Africa is detained, returned or destroyed at US and European ports due to simple mistakes such as improper packaging and labeling, inadequate compliance with paperwork, insect infestation and mould growth on the products.
To be successful in this business, you must focus on the details and be careful to comply with ALL the requirements. (photo credit: africa-blogs.mirror.co.uk)
How to export Dried and Smoked fish to the UK and Europe
The new European Union (EU) regulations ban all βcommercialβ consignments of smoked fish from Africa (and other non-EU countries) from entering the EU region.
This regulation has seriously reduced the volume of smoked fish that can be exported to Europe.
However, βpersonalβ exports are still allowed.Β Personal exports are small quantities of smoked fish (not more than 20kg in total weight).
This regulation is designed to prevent wholesale export of smoked fish to Europe. βPersonal exportβ includes consignments that are 20kg (or less) and may be carried as hand luggage while travelling.
It can also be sent (by mail or freight) directly to private addresses and named individuals in the EU for personal consumption only. Any exports to registered businesses in the EU or export quantities beyond the 20kg limit will not be allowed and will be seized and/or destroyed at EU ports.
This new policy has essentially killed smoked fish wholesale businesses in Europe who are presently unable to legally import commercial quantities of these products into the EU. This presents a huge opportunity to small African businesses interested in exporting smoked fish to Europe.
Export sizes are now much smaller (limited to 20kg) and can be sold directly to individuals in Europe. Your exports could be posted to target customers via airfreight, and should get to them within 24 hours.
You could sell directly to persons visiting Africa on business or holidays and send it over to them (via airfreight) on a repeat basis while they are back in Europe.
Exporting the minimum 20kg requirement is favourable to a Smallstarter because it significantly reduces the business risk involved.
This reduced quantity has reduced the amount of capital needed to start this business and allows you to sell directly to the consumers at retail prices (which greatly increases the profit potential).
Note: The European Union regulations governing food and beverage imports are constantly changing. To remain updated on the rules, you should make it a habit to check out the Fishery Products Import section of the UK Food Standards Agency.
How to export Dried and Smoked fish to the United States
Unlike Europe, it is still possible to export commercial quantities of smoked and dried fish to the USA, another huge market for the product.
However, following the passing of the Bioterrorism Act of 2002, βall facilities that manufacture, process, pack, or store food, beverages, or dietary supplements that may be consumed in the United States by humans or animals are required to be registered with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).’
The registration process is likely to include an inspection of the facility where your dried and smoked fish is produced. Companies located outside the United States must choose a US Agent who will be responsible for communicating with the FDA and handle any necessary paperwork.
Having a Certificate of Registration assures customers and suppliers that you have complied with all FDA regulations.
Registrar Corp is a good place to start your journey if youβre interested in supplying to the US market. They have food safety experts trained in FDA inspections who can offer experienced advice and help you get prepared to gain FDA approval.
Because the rules around importing food to the US change from time to time, it’s always a great idea to be on top of the most current information.
During the course of our research for this article, we came across a couple of good resources and give our top three recommendations as follows:
- Express Guidelines for Importing Food to the United States – This is a very detailed resource on the DHL website. It contains a lot of stuff you’ll be interested in if you intend to export food stuff to the US.
- Importing Food for Commercial Sale (Resale) is another great resource on the website of the US Customs and Border Protection. New alerts are issued on the site from time to time.
- Rules, Regulations and Procedures for importing food to the United States – Although this document originated from the Kabul Embassy in Afghanistan, it contains a lot of detail on the subject. It’s a 7-page PDF document and should take you less than 5 minutes to read. However, we noticed a lot of the links on the document are quite dead.
Success tips for aspiring smoked fish exporters…
As you now know, the regulations around food imports to the EU and USA are very strict. You must be ready to comply with all these regulations to avoid seizure or destruction of your products at the destination port.
First, the smoked and dried fish must be well processed and preserved. If the fish is not smoked using the right wood, charcoal or technique, it may end up with high levels of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAH).
These substances are considered by the US and European Union to be dangerous to human health and are claimed to cause cancer. Smoked fish consignments containing more than 5 micrograms per kilogram of these substances may not be allowed into any of these countries.
Another common reason why smoked and dried fish consignments are seized is insect infestation and mould growth. If the fish still contain a considerable amount of moisture after drying and smoking, it’s very likely to attract insects and moulds which significantly reduce the quality of the products, and of course, the money you can make from them (thatβs if they get to get through the foreign borders).
Other common causes of seizure are incomplete documentation or improper labeling and packaging. You must ensure that you are aware of the required paperwork and work with the custom broker and importer to make sure everything is in place.
How to find buyers for your dried and smoked fish
There are a couple of options for aspiring exporters to find buyers and opportunities in the international markets. All of them are cost-free and provide the information, contacts and networks you need to become successful in the trade.
#1 β Register with an Export Promotion agency in your country
The traditional and most popular place to start your quest to find buyers is to register with an Export Promotion organization in your country. These are usually set up by governments to develop and promote export trade in the country.
Their major objective is to increase the amount of the countryβs exports by addressing challenges, obstacles and bottlenecks faced by exporters and producers. They usually provide capital (in the form of grants), make international market information available and help to link exporters to potential international buyers.
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) has an Export Expansion Grant Scheme which provides incentives to local exporters to grow their businesses and foreign exchange earnings. The Kenyan Export Promotion Council also supports Kenyan exports.
#2 – Join a local trade organizationΒ
Joining a trade organization in your country can be a very good way to gain an understanding of the dried fish export market and the tricks of the trade. These communities also allow you to network with other exporters, learn from their experiences and even get sales leads.
Often times, several exporters have to work together to fulfill large orders from big overseas clients. Being a part of a trade organization can help you find great deals.
#3 β Register with online marketplaces Β
Online marketplaces like Alibaba.com and Tradekey.com are some of the most popular platforms to meet buyers and sellers on the international markets. Registration is usually free and you can create a profile as a seller with a good description of your product and some nice pictures too.
Thousands of interested buyers and sellers visit these sites everyday to see whatβs on offer. Itβs a very convenient and inexpensive way to meet potential customers on a global scale.
#4 β Open an online store
The internet has totally changed the way business is done. Without a physical shop and all the registration fees you need to run a traditional business, opening an online store affords you the opportunity to be available 24 hours a day, everyday! Whatβs more, itβs much cheaper to run, very flexible and can reach all parts of the world.
Setting up a website is easy. There are lots of free tools and services that can get you up and running in less than 30 minutes. You could write about your product, upload very good sample photos and provide your contact details so interested buyers can reach you.
#5 β Word of mouth
As outdated as it may sound in todayβs world, word-of-mouth advertising still works and remains a great way to find potential customers. Social media like Facebook and Twitter make it much easier because you can share information about your products with your friends and contacts.
You never know who knows someone who needs your smoked fish. You spend a lot of time on these media anyway, it may just be time to use them for business benefit.
There are still opportunities in the dry and smoked fish export business in Africa
The size of the export market for smoked and dried fish from Africa is growing fast. Although some of the strict regulations make it difficult for most people to succeed in this business, informed and careful entrepreneurs still make a killing from it. Itβs a matter of playing by the rules and looking out for more global export opportunities.
If you have any experience in this area, weβre sure a lot of people reading this would love to learn from you. Please leave a comment in the section below and share this opportunity with a friend.
Remember, you can find more interestingΒ success stories and business opportunities like this one in theΒ Business ideas section of Smallstarter.
To your success!
And by the way, if you enjoyed reading this article and you’re thinking of raising capital to start or grow your business, you’ll love my amazing and life-changing FREE course.
Click the course banner below or click here to get started with the course.
I’ve been really confused about exporting smoked fish to Europe. No one I asked could give me the information I needed.
Thank you for helping me out. I can start working on my contacts now!
I am into catfish farming although still at a small scale. Please advice on how I can get into the export market.
Regards.
Hello Tunde,
We think the best place to start your export business journey is to register with an export trade promotion agency. In Nigeria, its NEPC (Nigerian Export Promotion Council). You can contact them at http://www.nepc.gov.ng/contact.htm
Because the rules of the export trade constantly change, this agency always has the latest information. Above all, it always organises training programs for people like you who intend to start an export business. Training is very important if you want to succeed due to the technical requirements and strict export rules (especially in the USA and Europe).
Since your catfish farming is still at a small scale, your interaction with NEPC may link you to trading houses and bulk buyers who usually buy from small producers like you for export.
We hope this helps. Remember to share your experience as you progress.
Thanks for stopping by…
John-Paul
Please am new here, i wish to know A-Z information on how to export dried catfish from Nigeria to anywhere in the world.
Hi Omole,
Thanks for leaving a comment.
In this article, we tried our best to capture all the essential information anyone would need to successfully export dried fish from Africa.
But we understand you may have some [u]specific questions[/u] you’d like to get answers to. Please ask and we’ll be more than happy to respond.
In addition to getting all the answers you need, our conversation could reveal further information that’ll be very useful to other readers.
We also noticed you signed up for our email alerts.
Thank you! 8)
PS: Looking forward to your questions…
John-Paul
Dear Sir
I want to enter the export business starting with dried vegetables and going to dried fish later but I want to know if you mentor people and what will it take for you to show me the way and lead me in the right direction.
You can reach me by my email above.
Okadu
Hello Okadu,
Thank you very much for taking the time to ask a question.
We’re happy to answer all your questions, give advice and mentorship. However, we prefer that all discussions take place here in the Comments section so that readers (now and in the future) can learn from your experience.
We have sent you a short email so you can send us only ‘confidential’ or ‘private’ details.
What will it take to show you the way? Nothing. Smallstarter.com is all about sharing and learning.
Again, thanks for your comment and we look forward to your questions about both your dried vegetables and dried fish export plans. π
John-Paul
Dear Sir you talked about two problem involve in.export of dried fishes which are the level of smoke residue and the issue of mould on the fishes is there any technology to improve smoking of the fish and reduce the smoking residue on the fish and how can they been stored that will prevent the growth of mould.
Hello Okadu,
Thanks for sharing your questions with the group. We’re sure thousands of people will learn and benefit from the answers.
A lot of smoked fish from Africa find it difficult to pass through US and European borders due to the high levels of PAH (Polycylic Aromatic Hydrocarbons). These substances are believed to cause cancer and damage human DNA.
The factors that lead to the production of these harmful substances include:
[b]1. Smoking method[/b]: Using sawdust and wet wood as fuel to smoke fish produces more smoke (and PAHs) than firewood and charcoal. Charcoal and gas ovens produce less smoke and contain the least PAHs.
[b]2. Smoking temperature[/b]: Bad smoke (with high PAH content) is produced when the fuel (wood, gas etc.) does not burn at a high enough temperature. Charcoal and oven-drying produce the highest temperatures and least smoke.
[b]3. Oil content in the fish:[/b] Fish that contains more fat will produce more PAH due to the burning of fat during the smoking process.
[b]Moulds (or fungi)[/b] only grow in fish because there is still some water (moisture) left in the fish. If fish is very well-dried and sealed to prevent moisture, moulds will hardly grow in them.
Again, if the fish stays exposed too long after smoking, moisture from the air can be absorbed into the fish and cause mould to grow. It’s helpful to ensure that your fish is sold off shortly after smoking and does not stay too long in storage.
We hope these answer your questions. We also found a very good report on the effects of smoking on different types of fish. It’s information-packed and you’ll love it. You can find it at [b]http://www.academicjournals.org/ajfs/pdf/Pdf2011/Jul/Silva%20et%20al.pdf[/b]
Please keep the questions coming…
John-Paul π
Thanks
I appreciate the reply and I now know the area to work on and design a system to use. And I will make it available for the blog when I am through.
Okad,
We’re glad you found the information useful. We look forward to learning from the system you’re designing.
We wish you the best of luck and will be on standby to provide any information you may need.
Cheers.
John-Paul π
Pls I have the idea of exporting foodstuff abroad, and would like to know what it takes to be able to do that effectively and successfully…. Thanks
Remember not only fishes but different kinds of foodstuff
Hi Kings,
There are different rules that apply to all categories of foodstuffs. If you plan to export vegetables and fruits, the processing, storage and pricing requirements will be different from say, smoked fish or garri.
You will need to find out if the products you want to export are allowed in the destination country (US, Europe or Asia). Some foodstuff are banned or required to be processed and packaged in a specific way.
This DHL page (http://www.dhl.com/en/express/shipping/shipping_advice.html) is a great place to find out specific information about any kind of product or foodstuff you want to export.
Another good way to get information is from the person(s) you will be supplying to (your customers) in the foreign country. They will usually let you know how the foodstuffs processed and packed. They also know about the changing rules in that country and will be able to help you to avoid seizure or destruction of your foodstuffs.
We hope this helps to answer your questions. If there’s any further information you need, just let us know.
Thanks for leaving a comment.
Cheers.
[b]
John-Paul[/b] 8)
Hello john Paul an excellent write up you got very enlightening, however my main interest is in the Best way of packaging smoked fish especially if I am going to export to the US to avoid it been seized.
Urgent response needed.
Hello Nnamdi,
Wrong packaging and labeling is responsible for up to 20 percent of seizures of food products at the US borders; so it’s good you’re interested in this important but often overlooked aspect of the export business.
There are two ways we recommend to find the exact answers you need:
1) Read the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) guidelines on food labeling and packaging. You will find this at http://www.fda.gov/Food/ResourcesForYou/Industry/ucm322302.htm#labeling
2) Use an experienced US-based agency that will help you to comply with all the import rules. Registrar Corp seems to be credible in this regard. You can check them out at http://www.registrarcorp.com/ and check the Food and Beverage section.
I hope this information helps you and thanks for asking.
Cheers…
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
Hello,Thanks for the rich information you shared on food export from Nigeria to EU and US.I am currently working on exporting dry smoked fish to USA.Please do have any information on how and where to buy/fabricate smoking equipment that won’t generation PAH while drying?
[quote name=”Lekan”]Hello,Thanks for the rich information you shared on food export from Nigeria to EU and US.I am currently working on exporting dry smoked fish to USA.Please do have any information on how and where to buy/fabricate smoking equipment that won’t generation PAH while drying?[/quote]
Hello Lekan you can contact me for fish smoking ovens with high conservation of heat energy. Our ovens always come in a two in one energy source (I.e two from these three: gas,electricity and charcoal) this means it will be fabricated to be operated on any of the two you choose from the three listed and the insulator is fibre which makes the ovens to conserve high heat energy and smokes your fish at a very fast rate. This oven generates little or no smoke and designed with a chimney to control the heat energy and smoke in case of any slight one .I am sure this is the type you need as it will not make ur fish have PAH .My contact details are 08028515745,08167488947 or olowaolugbenga@gmail.com for details and test run
Hi Michael,
Thank you very much for the very detailed response. I am quite impressed that your oven design includes features that help to reduce the PAH content in smoked fish.
I would strongly suggest that you invest some money, time and effort to send a sample of fish smoked in your ovens to a well-equipped lab for testing. The test results would reveal the actual levels of PAH in the finished product and this could serve as a strong selling point for you and bring a lot of credibility to your ovens.
Do you have any clients who have used your ovens to smoke fish and have successfully exported to the US or EU? These references will really help to boost your product and prove that it really works.
Thanks again for taking the time to leave such a helpful response. We really appreciate it.
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
Hi john,
Yes I have clients who have smoked with my oven
And exported to the UK and some of my clients
Supply their fish to exporter which I also do too.
But must of this exporters will not tell you
Who,where and how they ship which is a reason
I am under going some export training right
And doing research which led me to this site today.
PAH are carcinogenic materials which were put
Into consideration in the design of this oven
Charcoal produces a little of it which connsidered
Not harmful but I never wanted to even add it has source of energy but it adds a special flavour to
Ur fish after u finish smoking.so the ideal
Is to start smoking with either gas or electricity
For the first 80% time of smoking and dry it
With charcoal for the last 20% of time requiredm
But I would love to test my fish like you said
Do you have an address of a tested lab in lagos?
I will provide samples and finance to run the test
Thanks Michael for the insights you have given concerning the features and techniques you use to smoke fish to reduce PAH content.
We hope that unlike your clients who are not willing to share the secrets of the trade, you will share your knowledge at the end of your training? The oceans of opportunity are large enough for all of us to swim and be successful. π
About the test, I know the NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) office in Lagos has the kind of laboratory equipment that can do these tests. You can read more about them here: http://www.nafdac.gov.ng/index.php/laboratory-service-directorate
Office address:
Special Duties
NAFDAC Central
Laboratory
Oshodi
Thanks again Michael for your detailed and informative response.
Cheers.
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
Thank very much John. Yes I will
Surely share my findings on here
When am done. I have very busy weeks
But will try to work on the nafdac
Lab testing and will update u guys
[quote name=”olowa michael”]Thank very much John. Yes I will
Surely share my findings on here
When am done. I have very busy weeks
But will try to work on the nafdac
Lab testing and will update u guys[/quote]
We would really appreciate that Michael. Thank you again for your kind responses.
Hi everyone…to those who have been calling and some asking for my bb pin here is it … 25dde7bb. Am sorry I can’t send sms to everyone as most time when you call am on the farm working or on the field and I don’t save most numbers unless wee have a concrete arrangement already. I am through with my export training also and now working on my first consignment but the business is a bit capital intensive though highly profitable if done properly. I promise to share my experience that I will do and in fact I am pulling a team together to teach people for free not only on exportation but some other farming business too….ciao
Hurray! on the successful completion of your export training Michael! I can see you’re hard at work implementing the things you learned. Well done!
I must tell you that I am very impressed with your plan to freely share your new knowledge of the smoked fish export business. I am sure other readers will be very interested and will deeply appreciate your kindness.
Thank you also for the calls you have been taking and for sharing your BB PIN on this forum. If there is any new information you have gained about this business that you think will be helpful to more readers of this article, please share.
And for readers who have any questions or difficulties with the smoked fish business, please ask them here. More people stand the chance to learn if Michael shares his knowledge and experience here rather than attend to individual phone calls.
Thanks again Michael!
[b]John-Paul[/b] 8)
Hello John … No thanks and I must confess you guys are doing a great job on smallstarter, you have been giving out great ideals at no rate and I would love to join you in doing that.
For aspiring farmers in fish farming (catfish and tilapia), piggery, grasscutter farming, snail farming and exportation of Nigerian food stuff. Bethsaidal Naija holding a FREE seminar on the above listed on Saturday 9 Nov 2013. For reservation of seat contact Michael on 08028515745 or 08167488947β¦ Admission is 100% FREE!!!
Hi Michael,
This is great news! I thank you on behalf of everyone who has been following this page for keeping your word to share the knowledge you have gained in exporting foodstuff from Nigeria.
I hope the training will be in Lagos because I would love to attend. If you could have a seat reserved, that would be great.
I look forward to gaining new insights during the seminar and sharing the new information with other readers (especially outside Nigeria) who may be unable to attend this event. I sure don’t want them to miss out on this!
Looking forward to your favourable response and meeting you in person this Saturday.
Thank you again for a very noteworthy initiative. Well done!
[b]John-Paul[/b] 8)
Just want to appreciate u guys for your candid and awesome advice.u are wonderful.please I have a contact in france and am planning to start small with like 20kg like you have adviced but I need to know how much 1kg of smoked catfish goes in france.thanks very
Hello Oluwaseun,
Thank you for your comment and kind feedback.
About your question, we think what really matters is that you make a good profit. It doesn’t matter how much smoked fish is sold for in France; you need to be sure you can recover your costs and make something on top.
Here’s what we suggest. Add up everything it would cost you to get the fish to France (including cost of smoking and preparing the fish, air freight, duties etc). Just make sure you don’t leave any costs out.
When you have your final figure, multiply it by 2 (that’s a 100% profit). That’s the sale price you should offer to your contact in France. If that price is too high, you will know. Your contact will want to negotiate down the price and in the process, the real price of smoked fish in France may be revealed as he/she tries to prove that your price is too high.
If your contact does not complain and is comfortable with your quoted price, no problem. It only means that there is still more room for profit to exploit when you’re sending the next consignment.
I hope this technique of ‘[i]testing the price point[/i]’ works for you. If you need any further information, don’t hesitate to let us know.
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment and we would like to know if your deal goes through.
Cheers!
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
Certainly I will feed u back when am done with my findings.thanks so much for your prompt responses.I really do appreciate u guys.I will always tell u u are great guys.please the saturday senmier can the address be send to this line 07065916011.thanks so much.his grace is sufficient .
Please I need urgent help,I want to know how much u sell 1kilo of ur smoked catfish because I will be needing ur products on a large quatity.thanks
Hi everyone, just to remind u that the seminar continues this weekend. For those who were around last weekend they can tell u about it. Training was of freshwater fish farming and exportation, this week will focus on other farming business. Remenber a man with wisdom is powerful but will still rely on a man with knowledge because knowledge its self is the power. After the traiing we will supporting you in setting up in your own capacity and in the type u of farming u are interested in. Admission is still 100 FREE! 08028515745 or 08167488947
Hello Michael,
I am glad the seminar went well. I was not in town as planned and could not attend. My deepest apologies.
For the benefit of our readers who cannot attend (due to reasons of location or convenience), is it possible to share some tips and useful information regarding smoked fish production and export? We would really appreciate it.
Thanks a lot for everything you have shared with us so far.
Cheers!
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
Hi John,
Thank you for the support you are guys giving people like me here on your blog. I have read most of the comments and contributions from you and your team and I will say kudos. Keep up the good work. Will recommend this site to more friends and families starting their own businesses.
I am fish farmer located in Ghana. I am very much interested in smoking my fish and export majority to the UK and the US. Any idea about any institution I need approval from them here in Ghana before I can start this business?
Could you please advise? Thank you very much indeed.
Dom
Hello Dom,
Thank you very much for your kind feedback. It is just the encouragement we need to continue sharing everything we know.
Locally, smoked fish is still an unregulated product although there may be restrictions around certain locations against smoking fish (especially in residential areas in cities). Aside from this, there is usually no approval required to produce smoked fish locally.
To export however, you may to need to pay a visit to your local Customs office to find out the documentation and other requirements for exporting smoked fish. I think this is the best way to get the most accurate information about exportation from Ghana because the rules are always changing and often country-specific.
I hope you find this response useful. We would appreciate it if other readers who have more information in this regard can share it.
Thanks again Dom for taking the time and effort to leave a comment. We really appreciate it!
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
I quite appreciate the information I have got so far from this blog. I would like to know if regulations for smoked fish is different in Canada from that of the US. I do have a contact there who is interested in the business, but I really do not know how to beat the regulations constraints, if/when it comes up. Any insight into the Canadian market? Thanks
Hello Bisola,
Thank you for taking the time to leave us some feedback and ask questions. I’m sure other readers will benefit from the information we’ll share with you.
It appears the import regulations in Canada are quite different from the US. Your contact (importer) will need to apply for a Fish Import License if the quantity of smoked fish to be imported is more than 1,000kg. If less, a written authorization letter will be required. All of these are conditions specified for Fish Products under the Canadian Food Inspection Program.
My advice? Read the following articles and sections of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website:
1. [b]A Step-by-Step Guide to importing products into Canada[/b]: http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/sme-pme/i-guide-eng.html
2. [b]Import Requirements for Fish and Fish Products[/b]: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/food/imports/commercial-importers/importing-food-products/eng/1376515896184/1376515983781?chap=6#s14c6
3. Just to be safe, [b]your contact should reach out (by telephone or a physical visit) to any of the 14 Fish Import Program Inspection Offices in all the regions of Canada[/b]. All their addresses are listed here: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/fispoi/import/pol/offbure.shtml
A simple phone call may provide you with a load of information about the whole import process and save you time, energy and money.
I hope these resources will help you find all the information you need to successfully export these products.
If you have any further questions, I’ll be very glad to find you the answers.
Cheers.
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
By the way, most of those links up there are not opening…
Thank you for pointing this out. I believe it’s just the NEPC (Nigerian Export Promotion Council) website links that are affected. They have moved their links to http://www.nepc.gov.ng/
We shall update these links soon enough.
Thanks again.
[b]John-Paul [/b] π
Thanks a lot for this forum. It has been of immense and great help to me. I’m yet to start my animal farming (catfish included) and when I start, I’d definitely love to smoke/dry and export them for a greater profit. I’ll need the expertise of the like of Michael and some others.
Thanks once again
Hi Betty,
I’m glad you found some value in this article and all the comments that follow. Thank you for taking the time and effort to say ‘Thank you’. We deeply appreciate it.
Congratulations on your plan to start something in the animal farming business. We encourage you to do everything you can to bring your business dream to life. Over 90 percent of business ideas never make it out of our heads; they just sit there, wait for a long time and die. I’m sure you’ll be part of the 10 percent that turn their dreams into reality. π
Whatever questions or help you require to succeed in this business will be provided for you here. All you have to do is ASK.
I look forward to hearing from you soon about your progress.
Cheers!
[b]John-Paul[/b] 8)
Hi everyone, here is wishing all a merry xmas
And a happy new year in advance.I have been very busy with a new farm project which is why I have not been around here much.
Let me give a little more tip about smoke fish for exportation.packaging is one very important aspect. Of smoke fish exportation which will also depend on the type of exportation (I.e infornal or formal exportation). Informal exportation is faster and the consignment is likely to get to its destination between 5-10 working days dependinng onn country of destination so packaging is not as serious as that of the formal exportation which could take about 4-7 weeks.
Also the jute bags that contains the fish has to bevacuum sealed in other to get a longer sheeve life for ur fish. If not well package the fish is likely to grow mould before it gets to its destiation which will amount to lost of money especially in the case of formal exportation which is usually in large quantity…pls take note of that if you intend to do the business.
[quote name=”olowa michael”]Hi everyone, here is wishing all a merry xmas
And a happy new year in advance.I have been very busy with a new farm project which is why I have not been around here much.
Let me give a little more tip about smoke fish for exportation.packaging is one very important aspect. Of smoke fish exportation which will also depend on the type of exportation (I.e infornal or formal exportation). Informal exportation is faster and the consignment is likely to get to its destination between 5-10 working days dependinng onn country of destination so packaging is not as serious as that of the formal exportation which could take about 4-7 weeks.
Also the jute bags that contains the fish has to bevacuum sealed in other to get a longer sheeve life for ur fish. If not well package the fish is likely to grow mould before it gets to its destiation which will amount to lost of money especially in the case of formal exportation which is usually in large quantity…pls take note of that if you intend to do the business.[/quote]
Could you expatiate more on Informal and Formal exportation. Also, why would anyone want to go the way of formal exportation seeing as informal seems to hold the key to quicker shipping and thus better profits? Thanks
Let me use this medium to advertise our xmas and new year fish harmper(fish in the basket) for those of us that wants to give gifts to our families,friends, love ones,colleaagues,clients,etc…our fish hamper is perfect gift for anyone one. We various packages for different class of people you can send me an email on olowaolugbenga@gmail.com or call 08167488947 and I will send u a copy of our proposal with pictures and prices. Also delivery is free In lagos and its environ
Merry Christmas (in arrears) to you too Michael! Thanks for the tips on packaging smoked fish for export.
Fish hampers sound like a novel and interesting idea. Well done!
Enjoy the holidays!
[b]John-Paul[/b]
Hi, to every reader of this article, i congratulate you all including myself for to be part of those that find their way to this blessed site.
Hi John, thank you very much for sharing this expensive information with the serious people who are dearly in need of business that would give them financial freedom.
kudos to you guys for the great work. God is the only One who will reward greatly, and i pray that His mercy and grace will be sufficient for you all.
Michael well done, i thank u that u are not one of those that keeps all they to themselves only.
your successors are uncountable and they are those that benefit from your knowledge
once again thank you
Hi Nathaniel,
Thank you very much for your kind feedback. This is the single reason I’m sworn to writing only the best-researched and well written articles.
I hear you very well; you spoke from your heart indeed.
Thanks again!
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
Hi John, I’m glad u red comment, thanks.
i really don’t have interest in export things to abroad bcos it’s a little bit seems hard job for me bcos i know the level of my strength ( AM NOT DISCOURAGING ANYBODY HERE).
But i have this interest in plantation farm especially plantain
And i need more insight from people who know about it and how to excel in it.
thanks
Nathaniel
Hello Nathaniel,
Thank you for your honest feedback. I have left a response to your plantain business question in the relevant article.
You can read it here: http://smallstarter.com/browse-ideas/agribusiness-and-food/how-to-start-a-fruit-farming-and-export-business-in-africa#comment-469
If you have any further questions about plantain cultivation, you can leave it in the comments section of the article I just referred you to.
Many thanks.
[b]
John-Paul [/b]
Happy xmas and new year in advance.please I need need info on where I can get my catfish smoked and how much it cost to smoke it per pieces or per kilo.because getting my own oven might be a liitle problem cos where I live.Thanks
Hi guys for those in the house that already export smoke fish to the US I wid like to know what is the going price of a kilo preferably well packaged ones and the quantity you are able to deliver by-weekly/monthly…please here or forward detail to n.azike@yahoo.com adding pictures would be helpful
Hello to everyone and a happy new year as we roundup 2013.
Thanks again to John-Paul for what you’re doing on this thread as I intend to be part of the 10% that turn their dreams into reality.
I need to ask for micheal’s help on the free training he’s organizing. I was meant to understand the seminar is in Lagos, whereas I reside in Abuja. Supposing I’m to travel down to Lagos, will I benefit from this? And if yes,
How many days will this last for me? If a seperate training is to be organized for those coming from afar like myself, will it cost me, and how much? Please I need answers to these questions so as to enable make plans.
Thanks again as we journey into 2014
@ Betty,
Wishing u a happy new year in a couple of hours too. The training usually comes up every last 2 Saturdays of every month. Yes a seperate training can be organise for people who can’t be available for that arrangement. Just give me a call on 08167488947 and we can make an arragement.
@Nnamdi a kilo of smoke catfish goes for about N3000 provided it is well dried( this is because you lose atleast 75% of the weight if well dried)
Wishing everyone on the thread a blissful 2014
Hello Michael,
Thank you for sharing your knowledge and your timely answers to many of the questions that have been asked here. I wish you a successful 2014 and look forward to more of your contributions.
Cheers.
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
@seun catfish is smoked at the rate of N100 per kilo for unevicerated and N120 per kilo for evicerated. If you reside in lagos,ogun,oyo,edo,ondo or delta I have some contact address I can give you there. I also do it also but for lagos base only
@bisola that is because informal export is to individuals like family friends and there is limit to the total while formal is to companies and you need a contract and its usually done in containers unlike informal where u just send a box
U make a lot of money from formal and payment can be secured unlike informal. Shipping is faster and no documentation nor shipping license needed for informal
Hello, thank you for this write up. I want to know if you have any information regarding frozen or dried African giant snail export?
Regards
Hello Max,
Thanks for leaving a comment. About your question, have you read our article on snail farming? That would be a good place to start. You can read it by following this link: https://www.smallstarter.com/browse-ideas/agribusiness-and-food/snail-farming
If you have any questions after reading the article, ask them in the comments section of the snail farming article and I’ll be glad to find the answers.
Thanks again for stopping by.
Cheers.
[b]John-Paul[/b] π
@ John Paul : may God reward U greatly for this great information.
@Olowa Michael : God bless you greatly. Please I’m very interested in β ΡΞΎ training can you kindly give β ΡΞΎ details of d date Ο venue?
Hi everyone, for step by step guy on how to start and smoke catfish, types of oven and where to get them, starting your own farming business and many more….visit http://www.bethsaidal.blogspot.com
im dried fish exporter
liau84@live.com mail me
I just want to say thank you all guys, and give kudos to small starter buz once again thank you.
Hi everyone, for farmers and aspiring farmers especially fish farming, visit http://www.bethsaidal.blogspot.com for information on how to make your own floating feeds, how to smoke and export catfish, alternatives to fishmeal and many more.
My new pin is 2a83027a to those who use to have me on their list, i just switched phone. Thanks
How to export dry catfish from nigeria
Thank you very much for puthing this well written article.i enjoy reading it; very intersting and informative.i want to know if you have also a practical manual for poodaction of tilapia fish what will be operation cost inclouds purchasing egges or fingerlings for indoor farm or out?
i look forward to hear from you .
Hi everyone , it’s been a while and hope everyone is enjoying fish smoking and export business? with the crash in oil price and the fall of naira against the dollar, fish smoking and export business is really booming. We now have new designs easy to use smoking kilns with temperature gauge, racks of rollers with automatic oil and moisture collector. Contact Michael on 08112756626 or 08167488947 for a detail catalogue or visit http://www.bethsaidal.blogspot.com.ng
Please I want to know, how the potential market for dried fish in Nigeria specifically; location, the extent of the demand. Also how can I conduct a personal research in this regard
you can contact me and i can help you with any information you need about dried fish and consumables. oamiae@gmail.com
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Interesting write up. Good job. You have got a new fan today.
Such an informative post about the fish export business opportunities globally. Every country has its own set of regulations for the export business and the exporter can find buyers by registering on online marketplaces. Keep sharing!!