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FAS-Lagos forecasts a 12 percent increase in raw sugar imports in marketing year (MY) 2025/26 compared to the prior year. This is due to increased foreign exchange availability, appreciation of the naira, and the projected increase in consumption.

Continuing economic growth; increasing tourism; a healthy hotel, restaurant, and institutional sector; and a growing population will lead the UAE’s wheat and rice consumption to grow in the 2025-2026 marketing year (MY).

Ecuador's sugar production in marketing year (MY) 2025/26 is forecast to reach 513,000 metric tons (MT), a decrease from MY 2023/24 estimate. Domestic consumption is forecast to remain stable with gradual increases expected in the coming years.

Wheat production in marketing year (MY) 2025/26 (July-June) is projected at just over 10,000 metric tons (MT), a decline from the previous year. With only about 5,000 hectares (HA) dedicated to cultivation, Ecuador’s wheat production is insufficient to meet domestic demand and thus dependent on imports.

This report was revised to reflect all major export certificates and import permits that the government of Nigeria (GON) requires for exporting agricultural and related products from the United States to Nigeria.

The food processing industry is an important component of Ecuador’s manufacturing sector. This sector contributes 56 percent to Ecuador’s manufacturing gross domestic product and grossed $14 billion in net sales. Excellent sales prospects exist for U.S. food ingredient products to supply this industry.

Corn, wheat, rice, and sorghum consumption is expected to increase in marketing year (MY) 2025/26 due to the appreciation of the naira, slowing food price inflation, and macroeconomic stabilization.

The United Arab Emirates, the Arab world's second-largest economy, will continue to offer growing and dynamic market opportunities for U.S. exporters in the food service--hotel, restaurant, and institutional sector through the end of 2024 and beyond.

The UAE promotes biotechnology through a research ecosystem focused on innovation. Notable advances center on plant biotechnology such as quinoa and salicornia, in addition to the date palm.

In January 2024, Nigeria became the second country in Africa to approve the commercial release of four biotech (TELA) maize varieties.

This report covers food and agricultural import regulations and standards in the United Arab Emirates. U.S. agricultural suppliers are advised to consult with local importers prior to shipping to verify application of these requirements on their products.

This report identifies certificate requirements for U.S. food and agricultural products destined for the United Arab Emirates. This report is to be used in conjunction with the 2024 Food and Agricultural Import Regulations and Standards Country Report for the United Arab Emirates.