How Importers Can Buy Cocoa, Cashew, Sesame and Spices Directly From African Suppliers (2026)

Many importers would like to buy from African suppliers without a long chain of middlemen, but dealing direct means you take on the checks a trader would otherwise do for you. This guide sets out a sensible order of work for importers who want to buy from African suppliers of cocoa, cashew, sesame and spices: define the spec, ask for quotes, test samples, agree payment, and make sure the shipment can legally enter your market. It is general information and not legal advice.

Step 1: Write a specification before you ask for prices

Suppliers cannot quote accurately on "good cocoa". Write down grade, moisture, packing, quantity, destination port and the paperwork you need. Be aware that standards differ by product. For example, CBI notes that buyers assess cocoa through sensory, chemical and physical (cut) tests, often following ISO or industry protocols. A written spec lets you compare quotes from different suppliers on equal terms.

Step 2: Send a request for quotation

On Comilmart you can register and send a request for quotation at /request-quotation, and you can also browse listed products in the food and agro category and the supplier directory. Verified supplier checks exist on the platform, and verified status is optional for suppliers, so ask each supplier what documents they can show instead of assuming. Use live chat to ask questions before committing. Comilmart cannot promise that a supplier will answer your request, or what prices and volumes you will be offered.

Step 3: Order samples and test them

Never skip the sample stage on a first order. Read our guide to sample ordering for the process, then do three things: compare the sample against your spec, keep a sealed reference portion, and send another portion to an accredited laboratory in your country. For spices, CBI reports that buyers want accredited lab reports that are usually no older than six months, and it notes some northwest European buyers test for more than 500 pesticide residues. Ask suppliers for a certificate of analysis for the lot that will actually ship, not only for the sample.

What EU rules mean for these four products

For goods entering the EU, the European Commission's Access2Markets import guide sets out four steps: find a supplier, check conditions and compliance, arrange the sale and transport, and prepare customs documents. Importers generally need an EORI number from their national customs authority and should apply early because registration can take time. A customs declaration is filed by the importer or a customs representative, and the page lists documents such as a commercial invoice, transport documents, certificates of origin, test results and inspection certificates, depending on the goods.

Cocoa. CBI's cocoa buyer requirements page (last updated 10 July 2024) names limits for heavy metals such as cadmium, pesticide residues, ochratoxin A, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, microbes such as Salmonella and foreign matter, and says non-compliant products can be rejected at the border. It also describes the EU Deforestation Regulation, which requires proof that cocoa is not linked to recently deforested land; CBI says that means recording farm GPS locations, batch identifiers and transport details. Check the European Commission's current guidance for its application dates. See also how exporters prepare cocoa from Ghana and Nigeria.

Spices. According to CBI's spices and herbs requirements page (last updated 12 May 2026), no detectable Salmonella is acceptable, maximum residue levels apply to pesticides, ethylene oxide is a banned fumigant, and aflatoxin limits in specified spices are 5 micrograms per kilogram for B1 and 10 for total aflatoxins. It also says some origins face higher official check rates. Buyers often follow European Spice Association quality minima and ask for accredited lab reports.

Cashew and sesame. Each has its own limits, notably aflatoxin for cashew and Salmonella for sesame, and some origins face higher EU check rates that are reviewed regularly. Ask suppliers for recent lab results and confirm current EU rules before you buy.

What US rules mean for importing food

The FDA's page on importing food products into the United States (current as of 11 December 2024) says food can come in without prior FDA approval if the facilities that produce, store or handle it are registered with the FDA. Importers must give advance notice of shipments, importers are responsible for ensuring food is safe, sanitary and labelled according to US requirements, and the page lists Foreign Supplier Verification Programs among the requirements. FDA can inspect shipments at ports and detain those that do not comply. Confirm current details with FDA or a licensed customs broker before you order.

Agree payment and delivery terms in writing

Match payment to risk. A first order usually calls for a more protected method than a repeat order. Our explainers on LC, TT and escrow payment terms covers the options. For marketplace orders, buyer protection holds payment until delivery is confirmed, with a 7-day window to report issues. Always confirm bank details by calling a number you found independently before you pay, because changed payment instructions are a common fraud warning sign.

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy cocoa or cashew directly from African suppliers? Yes, many importers do, but you take on supplier checks, quality testing and import compliance that a trader might otherwise handle for you.

How do I know a supplier is genuine? Check their registration, ask for references and certificates, test samples and consider verified supplier status as one signal among others. Our guide on vetting overseas suppliers has a full checklist.

Do I need a lab test for every shipment? Not legally in every case, but buyers commonly request accredited lab results for the lot they will receive. Ask your customs broker what applies in your market.

Is there a minimum order? That depends on the supplier. Comilmart's B2B catalog supports minimum order quantities and tiered pricing, so check each listing.

Getting started

Post your requirement at /request-quotation, browse food and agro listings or the supplier directory, and create a free account to message suppliers through live chat. Import rules change often, so confirm with the relevant customs or food authority before shipping.