Overview:
In 2024, a Polish pet food manufacturer sought to expand its market reach into Nigeria, targeting the growing pet care industry fueled by an emerging middle class and increased pet ownership. Nigeria’s demand for premium pet products presented a significant opportunity; however, the company faced hurdles related to regulatory compliance, import logistics, and distributor identification.

Challenges:

1. Regulatory Compliance: Navigating Nigeria’s strict food import regulations, including health certifications, labeling requirements, and quality standards.
2. Customs and Tariffs: Managing Nigeria’s complex customs process and high import duties on pet food products.
3. Distribution Network: Identifying reliable distributors with established channels in Nigeria’s pet care market, particularly in urban areas like Lagos and Abuja.

Import Support Solutions:
To address these challenges, the Polish company partnered with SCA-Partner consultancy for specialized import support in Nigeria. The assistance provided included:

• Regulatory Guidance: SCA-Partner offered guidance on Nigerian import regulations, helping the company obtain necessary certifications from relevant agencies to ensure compliance with local food safety and quality standards.
• Customs and Duty Management: The consultancy assisted with customs documentation and advised on import duty optimization strategies, reducing time at customs and lowering costs associated with import tariffs.
• Distributor Matchmaking: SCA-Partner leveraged its local network to identify reputable Nigerian distributors experienced in the pet food industry. Vetting included assessing distribution capacity, market reach, and brand alignment.
• Market Positioning and Adaptation: SCA-Partner provided insights on Nigerian consumer preferences and recommended marketing strategies tailored to the local market, emphasizing the quality and nutritional benefits of the Polish pet food brand.

Outcome:
With SCA-Partner’s import support, the Polish pet food company successfully launched its products in Lagos, Abuja, and other key Nigerian cities, gaining traction with pet owners seeking high-quality pet food. Early sales showed promising growth, and the company is now exploring expansion within West Africa. The successful entry into Nigeria set a foundation for potential growth across other African markets.