Zobo Leaves Wholesale in Nigeria: Full Details With Complete Breakdown + Price List
Introduction
Zobo leaves, derived from the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant (commonly known as Roselle), are a key ingredient in Nigeria’s popular zobo drink, a tangy, refreshing hibiscus tea. These dried leaves are valued for their vibrant red color, tart flavor, and health benefits, including antioxidants, vitamin C, and support for blood pressure and weight management. With the growing demand for zobo drinks in households, restaurants, and export markets, sourcing zobo leaves wholesale in Nigeria is a lucrative opportunity for businesses. This article provides a comprehensive guide to buying zobo leaves wholesale, including types, suppliers, pricing, and key considerations for bulk purchasing.
Types of Zobo Leaves
Zobo leaves vary based on processing, packaging, and intended use. Below are the main types available in Nigeria:
- Whole Dried Zobo Leaves
- Description: Fully dried, intact hibiscus sepals, typically deep red or burgundy, with a coarse, papery texture.
- Uses: Ideal for brewing zobo drink, making herbal teas, or adding to soups and salads for flavor and color.
- Advantages: Retains maximum flavor and nutrients, suitable for traditional recipes.
- Packaging: Available in 100g, 150g, 500g, or 1kg packs, or by mudu (a local measuring unit, ~2-3kg).
- Shredded Zobo Leaves
- Description: Crushed or finely cut hibiscus leaves, processed for quicker brewing and stronger flavor.
- Uses: Preferred for commercial zobo drink production due to faster infusion.
- Advantages: Saves preparation time, ideal for large-scale beverage production.
- Packaging: Sold in 100g, 200g, or bulk bags (e.g., 10kg).
- Zobo Leaf Mix
- Description: Pre-blended zobo leaves with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves for enhanced flavor.
- Uses: Ready-to-use for zobo drinks, eliminating the need to source additional spices.
- Advantages: Convenient, consistent flavor profile, and popular for commercial use.
- Packaging: Typically in 100g or 200g packs.
- Organic Zobo Leaves
- Description: Certified organic, pesticide-free hibiscus leaves, often marketed for health-conscious consumers.
- Uses: High-end zobo drinks, export markets, and premium tea blends.
- Advantages: Meets international standards, appeals to eco-conscious buyers.
- Packaging: Sold in 100g, 8oz, or bulk quantities for export.
Where to Source Zobo Leaves in Nigeria
Zobo leaves are widely available through physical markets, online platforms, and agricultural suppliers. Below are key sources:
- Major Markets
- Mile 12 Market (Lagos): A leading hub for agricultural products, offering bulk zobo leaves at competitive prices. Contact: sa***@**********et.com, +2348058908846.
- Wuse Market (Abuja): Supplies high-quality zobo leaves, especially for northern Nigeria. Known for well-sorted, de-stoned leaves.
- Kano Markets (Kano State): Jigawa and Kano are the highest producers of zobo leaves in Nigeria, making Kano markets ideal for sourcing large quantities.
- Onitsha Main Market (Anambra): Offers zobo leaves by mudu or bulk bags, ideal for eastern Nigeria buyers.
- Ariaria Market (Aba): Provides affordable zobo leaves for small and medium-scale businesses.
- Online Platforms
- Supermart.ng (www.supermart.ng): Sells zobo leaves in 2L (₦2,500–₦3,500) and 4L (₦4,500–₦6,000) packs, with same-day delivery in Lagos. Sources directly from manufacturers for wholesale pricing.
- Jiji Nigeria (www.jiji.ng): Lists zobo leaves from local sellers, starting at ₦2,000 for 1kg packs. Bulk options available for wholesalers.
- The Market Food Shop (www.themarketfoodshop.com): Offers 150g packs of zobo leaves and zobo tea bags, with delivery across Nigeria and abroad.
- Wigmore Wholesale (www.wigmorewholesale.com): Supplies zobo leaf mix (100g with ginger, cinnamon, cloves) for bulk buyers, shipping to Lagos, Abuja, and West Africa.
- Global Trade Plaza (www.globaltradeplaza.com): Connects buyers with suppliers like Albayan International Company Limited for bulk zobo leaves at wholesale prices.
- International and Local Suppliers
- Albayan International Company Limited (Nigeria): A trusted supplier of bulk zobo leaves, offering export-quality products with flexible payment terms (e.g., L/C). Contact via Global Trade Plaza.
- Humble Sage Food (www.humblesagefood.com): Sells dried zobo leaves for ₦30,000 per bulk order, ideal for beverage manufacturers.
- Trade Direct International (www.tradekey.com): Supplies zobo leaves for local and international markets, emphasizing Nigeria’s role in global hibiscus trade.
- Local Farmers in Jigawa and Kano: Direct sourcing from farmers in northern Nigeria ensures the freshest leaves at lower costs. Jigawa is the highest producer in Nigeria.
Price List for Zobo Leaves Wholesale (2025 Estimates)
Prices vary based on quantity, quality, location, and market demand. Below is an estimated price list based on available data and market trends:
| Product Type | Quantity | Price Range (₦) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Dried Zobo Leaves | 100g | 1,000 – 2,000 | Retail pack, cleaned and sorted |
| Whole Dried Zobo Leaves | 1kg | 2,000 – 4,000 | Bulk pack, ideal for small businesses |
| Whole Dried Zobo Leaves | Mudu (~2-3kg) | 5,000 – 8,000 | Common in local markets like Mile 12 |
| Shredded Zobo Leaves | 200g | 1,500 – 3,000 | Faster brewing, commercial use |
| Zobo Leaf Mix (with Spices) | 100g | 2,000 – 3,500 | Includes ginger, cinnamon, cloves |
| Organic Zobo Leaves | 8oz (~227g) | 3,000 – 5,000 | Export-quality, pesticide-free |
| Bulk Zobo Leaves | 10kg | 15,000 – 25,000 | For large-scale beverage production |
| Bulk Zobo Leaves (Export) | 1 ton | 1,500,000 – 1,700,000 | High-quality, cleaned for export |
Note: Prices are indicative and may fluctuate by 5–20% due to inflation, demand, and logistics costs. Prices also vary by location, with a 10% differential based on proximity to production hubs like Jigawa or Kano. Always request quotes from multiple suppliers for accurate pricing.
Considerations for Wholesale Purchasing
- Quality and Processing
- Ensure leaves are well-sorted, de-stoned, and free from contaminants to meet food safety standards.
- Opt for dried leaves for a stronger brew, as they release more flavor and nutrients compared to fresh leaves.
- Certification for Export
- For international markets, choose organic or export-quality leaves that meet standards like those set by Global Trade Plaza or NAFDAC.
- Verify supplier certifications to avoid issues with pest-related bans, as seen in past export challenges to Mexico.
- Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ)
- Local suppliers like Jiji and Supermart.ng accept low MOQs (e.g., 100g–1kg), while international platforms like Wigmore Wholesale or Global Trade Plaza require 10kg+ for bulk pricing.
- Shipping and Logistics
- Local markets like Mile 12 and Wuse offer low or no shipping costs for bulk purchases.
- International suppliers (e.g., Wigmore Wholesale) may incur high clearing fees at Nigerian ports like Apapa. Request landed cost quotes for accuracy.
- Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure zobo leaves meet NAFDAC standards for food-grade products in Nigeria.
- Register your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) if importing or distributing large quantities.
- Storage
- Store leaves in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or degradation. Use airtight containers for long-term storage.
- Avoid overstocking to minimize storage costs, especially for small businesses.
Tips for Cost-Effective Purchasing
- Buy in Bulk: Larger orders (e.g., 10kg or 1 ton) significantly reduce the cost per unit. For example, bulk zobo leaves drop to ₦1,500–₦2,500 per kg for 10kg+ orders.
- Negotiate with Suppliers: Markets like Mile 12 and Onitsha allow price haggling for wholesale deals.
- Source from Production Hubs: Buying directly from farmers in Jigawa or Kano minimizes logistics costs and ensures freshness.
- Compare Online and Offline Prices: Supermart.ng and Jiji offer competitive prices for small quantities, but local markets provide better deals for bulk buyers.
- Check for Promotions: Platforms like Jumia and Supermart.ng often have seasonal discounts or free delivery for bulk orders.
- Partner with Local Farmers: Direct deals with farmers or cooperatives in northern Nigeria can secure lower prices and priority supply.
Conclusion
Zobo leaves are a versatile and in-demand ingredient in Nigeria, fueling the popularity of zobo drinks and herbal teas. By sourcing from reliable suppliers like Supermart.ng, Jiji, Wigmore Wholesale, or local markets such as Mile 12 and Wuse, businesses can access high-quality leaves at competitive prices. Jigawa and Kano are key production hubs, offering cost-effective sourcing for bulk buyers. Prioritize quality, regulatory compliance, and strategic purchasing to maximize profitability. For export or large-scale orders, consider suppliers like Albayan International Company Limited for certified, high-quality leaves.
For further inquiries or to place bulk orders, contact suppliers via their websites (e.g., www.supermart.ng, www.wigmorewholesale.com) or visit markets like Mile 12 for hands-on selection. Stay informed about market trends and export opportunities to thrive in Nigeria’s zobo industry.