The U.S. Mission in Nigeria, in collaboration with the California Wine Institute, hosted a trade promotion event in Lagos to strengthen U.S.-Nigeria agricultural trade and boost exports of California wines.
Key Highlights of the Event
- 18 California wineries participated, showcasing over 160 award-winning wines.
- More than 120 Nigerian importers, distributors, and hospitality industry stakeholders attended.
- A specialized seminar was held to discuss trade opportunities and market expansion strategies.
Nigeria: A Growing Market for U.S. Wines
Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg emphasized that Nigeria is the largest market in Africa for U.S. wines, with exports reaching $7.8 million in 2024—a 65% increase from 2023.
She highlighted California’s dominance in the wine industry:
- Produces over 80% of U.S. wine
- Ranks 4th among the world’s wine producers
- Home to 5,000+ wineries, mostly family-owned
Expanding California Wines in Africa
The California Wine Institute’s Vice President for International Marketing, Honore Comfort, expressed excitement about the 2025 Africa Tasting Tour, which kicked off in Lagos and will continue in Nairobi, Kenya, and Cape Town, South Africa.
The tour aims to increase knowledge and demand for California wines across the continent.
U.S. Commitment to Agricultural Trade
The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plays a crucial role in:
- Connecting Nigerian agri-businesses with U.S. exporters
- Helping Nigerian businesses scale profitability with new and competitive agricultural solutions
- Supporting government and private sector collaborations in trade and development
With Nigeria’s growing demand for premium wines, this event marks a significant step in strengthening trade relations between both nations.
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