Ouagadougou: The Burkinabe Government has announced the indefinite postponement of the shea nut export period for the 2025-2026 season. This decision aims to ensure the availability of shea nuts for national processing units.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Minister in charge of Trade issued a statement on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, indicating the postponement of the shea kernel export, initially set from December 1, 2025, to May 31, 2026. The government emphasizes the importance of making shea nuts accessible to local processing units.

This move follows a previous government ban on almond exports on September 18, 2024, intended to boost domestic market supply. Although a subsequent announcement on September 22, 2025, had scheduled exports to commence on December 1, 2025, it was conditional upon operators selling at least 25% of their stock to local producers before exporting.

The government’s decision arises from observations that local processors are still not receiving adequate quantities for their operations. The Minister of Trade has warned that violators of this measure will face strict penalties, including the seizure and sale of products, confiscation of transport means, and mandatory community service, with proceeds benefiting the Patriotic Support Fund (FSP).

Economic actors are urged to comply with this decision, and any suspected violations can be reported to control bodies or via toll-free numbers: 84 00 11 84 / 84 00 11 85.