'Lagos N45,000/50kg' - Nigerian states with highest and lowest prices of rice

The World Food Security Update revealed that at the end of July 2023, the prices of agricultural products, exports, and cereals spiked by 6%, 4%, and 10%, respectively.

Also, the prices of maize and wheat increased to close at 12% and 14% at the end of July 2023.

Global food shortage hits Africa, other regions

Per the report, high food inflation was noticeable in most low-and middle-income countries, with inflation rates exceeding 5%. Africa, North America, Latin America, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Central Asia were affected the most, experiencing food price inflation of over 80% in real terms.

According to Nairametrics, rice prices have surged in Nigeria by 29% within two months, causing widespread worry among traders and consumers.

Reports say that locally produced rice is sold at N37,00 per 50kg in the nation's capital, Abuja, while imported rice goes for N48,000 per 50kg.

Price of rice nears N50,000 in some states

Towards the end of July, the commodity price rose in Port Harcourt, peaking at N48,000. Although, the cost of the commodity differs by type and brand.

Mango rice is sold at N39,000, Mama's Pride at N38,000, and Cap rice increased to N48,000.

Distributors reportedly blamed the rise in the cost of transportation after the subsidy was removed from petrol on May 29, 2023.

They also blamed the volatile exchange rates market and the cost of accessing Forex in the country.

Sellers reveal reason for price increase

The Nigerian government banned rice importation, emphasizing locally produced rice.

Also, tariffs on rice imports increased for packages larger than 5kg or smaller from 50% to 60%.

Market surveys show that Nigerians rarely patronize locally-produced rice.

Retailers cited that Big Bull, high-quality locally produced rice, is unavailable in the market, and when found, the price could be more affordable.

India bans rice export to Nigeria, other countries amid inflation as commodity hits N40,000 per 50kg

Legit.ng reported that the Indian government says it has stopped the export of non-basmati white rice to Nigeria and other countries to lower the cost of the staple in the country.

The country’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution revealed the export ban in a statement on Thursday, July 20, 2023.

The non-basmati rice is a small grain rice and is widely consumed in the Asian country.