YAM- YUM!

A tale of two regions:

Yam is produced in Saint Lucia and the wider Caribbean region. It is also produced in Africa but at a much greater scale of production. In this post we focus on the fascinating account of Ghana's successful yam export as related by a major exporter. With over 100 yam export companies in Ghana, his business has a 30% share of the yam export industry. His yams are prominently displayed at the Ghana stand at the Fruit Logistica which began today in Berlin, Germany. My presence at this trade fair is due to the gracious invitation of COLEACP. African states are well represented at this event, and the Ghana stand is an excellent example.

Prized yams in their viewing case

Competitive Advantages

1. Climate

Traditionally, agricultural production coincides with peak rainfall periods of the year. Ghana's rainy season begins in March/April. This allows a competitive advantage over major competitors, whose rainy seasons occur later in the year. To supply the European demand for this tasty tuber, this exporter ships 200,000 yams per month! At the moment since demand is greater, he has opted for air transport to fill the demand in between shipments.

2.Yams

Nice dry yams

What makes the buyer yearn for yams from Ghana? The distinct taste of the yams has earned them their renown. The taste is even preferred over the taste of yams from other competing African nations such as Nigeria and the Ivory Coast. Ghana has enjoyed success in particular with the variety, Puna. Hopefully, I may get the opportunity to experience the taste test myself without the guarantee of objectivity! I would like to taste the difference between their yam and our yam.

Also, customer satisfaction depends on minimal loss due to spoilage. To achieve this, the harvested yams are kept in the warehouse for three weeks prior to shipping. In this time, all the pieces of yam which would have spoiled would be sorted. During this period, moisture which accelerates post harvest loss would have dried off the yams selected for export.

On first impressions of Fruit Logistica, I had not imagined that root crops would be featured. This pleasant surprise afforded me a first hand learning experience of the scope of the international tuber trade. With African and Caribbean diaspora, Ghana's yams are well poised to take advantage of this European niche market.

Additional resources:

Analysis of Incentives and Disincentives for Yam in Ghana