Benin has begun exporting pineapples to China, capitalizing on the Asian giant’s zero-tariff policy to gain entry into the world’s second-largest economy. The inaugural shipment follows agreements signed during President Patrice Talon’s 2023 visit to Beijing and is poised to deliver significant benefits to thousands of local pineapple growers.
In fields located about 100 kilometers from Benin’s capital, workers have been harvesting a bountiful crop this year, with plantations stretching for miles. These sweet Benin pineapples are now destined for tables thousands of kilometers away in China. For export suitability, officials emphasized that each fruit must feature a flawless exterior, a healthy crown in good condition, and preferably a green appearance at the time of selection.
A special ceremony marked the departure of this historic first shipment, the result of years of collaborative efforts. These include the 2023 agreements between Cotonou and Beijing, building on a memorandum of understanding signed in 2002, the recognition of Benin pineapples as safe produce at the China International Import Expo in 2024, and the resolution of various technical challenges that paved the way for large-scale exports today.
Benin’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Shadiya Alimatou Assouman, described the successful export and official entry into the Chinese market as the culmination of joint efforts. “This successful export of pineapples and the official entry into the Chinese market is the culmination of our joint efforts from the signing of the memorandum of understanding in 2002 to the recognition of Benin pineapples as safe produce at the China International Import Expo in 2024 right through to the resolution of technical challenges—all of which have made this large-scale deployment possible today,” she stated.
The launch underscores deepening economic cooperation between the two nations, particularly following China’s decision to lift customs barriers for many African products. Under the direct and strategic impetus of the two heads of state, economic and trade ties between China and Benin have entered a phase of acceleration characterized by quality and efficiency. China has long been Benin’s leading trading partner, and bilateral trade—especially Benin’s exports to China—holds bright prospects and substantial potential for further development.
Benin currently ranks as the fourth-largest pineapple exporter in Africa, with around 6,000 producers involved in the sector, generating over 450,000 tons of pineapples annually. For these producers, the event represents a landmark moment of international recognition for their hard work, perseverance, and expertise in cultivating one of the country’s most iconic agricultural products.
Beninese officials described the milestone as more than a simple commercial transaction. They view it as a promise of future growth, development, and even stronger cooperation with China in the years ahead. The move is expected to open new opportunities for the thousands of families and communities reliant on pineapple farming, while contributing to broader efforts to diversify and strengthen Benin’s agricultural exports.