HS Code:
Yams (Dioscorea spp.), classified under HS Code 071430, are starchy tuberous roots native to Africa, Asia, and the Americas. They are a staple food in many tropical and subtropical regions, valued for their nutritional content, including high levels of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamins. Yams are distinct from sweet potatoes, though often confused, and are primarily grown for human consumption, with some varieties used for medicinal purposes or as animal feed. The global trade of yams is driven by demand in regions where they are a dietary staple, particularly in West Africa, which dominates both production and consumption.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 1.2 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and FAO Statistics
800,000 metric tons (export)
66.7% of global export trade of total trade
Increasing due to rising domestic production and regional demand
200,000 metric tons (export)
16.7% of global export trade of total trade
Stable with consistent export to diaspora communities in Europe and North America
100,000 metric tons (export)
8.3% of global export trade of total trade
Increasing due to improved agricultural practices and market access
50,000 metric tons (import)
4.2% of global import trade of total trade
Stable with demand driven by immigrant communities
40,000 metric tons (import)
3.3% of global import trade of total trade
Increasing due to growing African and Caribbean diaspora
Average Rate
6.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by some South Asian countries to protect local tuber markets)
Lowest Rate
0% (under preferential trade agreements like ECOWAS for West African countries)
Growing demand in diaspora markets
Increased exports from West Africa to Europe and North America, driven by African and Caribbean communities seeking traditional foods
2020-2022
Adoption of improved yam varieties
Higher yields and disease resistance have boosted production in key exporting countries like Nigeria and Ghana, stabilizing supply chains
2019-2022
Rising interest in organic yams
Small but growing niche market for organic and sustainably grown yams, particularly in the EU, leading to premium pricing for certified producers
2021-2022
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) updated its trade policies to facilitate tariff-free movement of yams within member states, boosting intra-regional trade.
March 2023
Expected to increase trade volume by 10-15% among West African countries, particularly benefiting Nigeria and Ghana.
A collaborative effort between the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and national agricultural bodies introduced resistant yam varieties to combat anthracnose disease in key growing regions.
July 2022
Reduced crop losses by 20% in affected areas, stabilizing export supply from Nigeria and Cรดte d'Ivoire.
The European Union tightened phytosanitary requirements for yam imports to prevent the introduction of invasive pests, requiring stricter certification processes.
January 2023
Temporary reduction in exports to EU markets as exporters adapt to new standards; long-term potential for improved product quality and market trust.