Niger’s military government has implemented a ban on rice, cereal, and legume exports to protect local food supplies amid rising inflation. However, the restriction excludes Burkina Faso and Mali, two neighboring countries also governed by military regimes following recent coups.

The government explained that the measure aims to safeguard the domestic market and make essential goods more accessible. Violators of the export ban could face shipment seizures and criminal penalties. Niger remains a key cereal supplier to the region, especially for parts of Nigeria.

Although ECOWAS sanctions imposed after Niger’s July 2023 coup were lifted in February, supply disruptions persist, contributing to high food prices across the country.