Export readiness
Are you structurally ready to export fresh produce?
This quick assessment is designed for West African exporters shipping mangoes, pineapples, cashews, cocoa and other produce into the EU, Russia/EAEU, Gulf and Asian markets. It is not a certification – it simply shows where you are strong and where to focus before your first serious buyer meeting.
Business & strategy
We have clear export goals and know which markets we want to prioritise.
For example: "Increase exports of fresh mangoes from Côte d'Ivoire to Russia and the Gulf within 18–24 months."
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.
Someone in the team has dedicated time to manage export activities.
Not just "when there is time" – export has an owner, even if part-time.
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.
Product & compliance
Our packaging, labelling and barcodes are ready for international buyers.
Includes language, nutritional info where needed, and retail-ready or bulk formats.
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.
We have or can obtain the certifications our target markets usually require.
Examples: GlobalG.A.P., HACCP, organic, Halal, Fairtrade, depending on your route.
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.
Operations & logistics
We have reliable logistics partners and cold chain for fresh shipments.
You know which freight forwarders you will use and how your product will move from farm to port and to buyer.
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.
We can reliably supply the volumes we want to offer to buyers.
You have realistic volumes and a plan to avoid over-promising during peak season.
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.
Finance & risk
We understand our full cost structure and can price in foreign currency.
You can estimate landed cost and margins for at least 1–2 target markets.
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.
We have basic tools to manage FX, non-payment and counterpart risk.
Examples: confirmed LCs, export credit insurance, advance payment, trusted partners.
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.
Sales & marketing
We have export-ready product sheets, photos and a simple website or profile.
Buyers can quickly understand your range, specs, certifications and capacity.
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.
We track buyer leads and follow-ups in a consistent way (even in a simple sheet).
No leads stuck in WhatsApp only – you can see who is in which stage.
This is a gap – plan concrete actions here.