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Commodity GuideHS 0905
Vanilla Export Guide
Africa produces over 80% of the world's vanilla, led by Madagascar. With prices reaching $400-600/kg for gourmet beans, vanilla is one of the most valuable spices by weight. Master curing, grading, and market access.
$1.2B global market 4.5% CAGR growth 80%+ from Africa
Producer Countries
#1 Madagascar
Bourbon Vanilla (planifolia)
2,500 MT
80% global
#2 Uganda
Planifolia & Tahitensis
200 MT
7% global
#3 Tanzania
Bourbon-type planifolia
100 MT
3% global
#4 Kenya
Planifolia (smallholder)
30 MT
1% global
#5 Rwanda
Emerging planifolia
15 MT
<1% global
Curing Process
1. KillingDay 1
Hot water blanching (63°C for 3 min) to stop growth
2. Sweating7-10 days
Wrap in wool blankets, sun-dry during day, sweat boxes at night
3. Slow Drying2-3 months
Spread on racks in shaded, ventilated area
4. Conditioning3-6 months
Store in sealed boxes to develop full flavor profile