Dieudonné Twahirwa, the visionary 30-year-old CEO of Gashora Farms in Rwanda, has successfully inked a groundbreaking 5-year, $500 million contract with GK International Enterprises, a prominent Chinese food importer. This landmark agreement is set to revolutionize the global pepper market, as Gashora Farms commits to supplying 50,000 tons of dried chili peppers annually to meet China’s burgeoning demand.
Pepper, the second most highly-demanded seasoning globally after salt, holds a pivotal position in the culinary world. The annual worldwide consumption of peppers exceeds 750,000 tons, boasting a market value surpassing $4.5 billion in 2022. Projections for 2030 anticipate a further surge, with global spending on peppers expected to reach at least $5 billion.
Currently, five countries dominate the global production and export of peppers, with Vietnam leading the pack at 216,000 tons, followed by Indonesia, India, Brazil, and China. Notably, only one African country, Ethiopia, features among the top 10 producers.
Recognizing Africa’s potential in the pepper market, Twahirwa emphasizes the rich diversity of pepper varieties on the continent, including the Scotch Bonnet from West Africa, Cameroon’s Penja pepper, and the African Bird’s Eye (peri-peri) pepper prevalent in Ethiopia, Uganda, Mozambique, and parts of eastern and Southern Africa.
With an arsenal of over 50,000 pepper varieties worldwide, both local and international markets present ample opportunities to meet the growing demand. In response to increased demand in countries like China, the need to augment imports has become apparent.
Gashora Farms sees not only the potential in supplying raw and dried peppers but also the opportunity for African entrepreneurs to explore value addition through processing and branding. Examples such as Cameroon’s Penja pepper, adorned with an internationally protected geographical indications (PGI) label, showcase the potential for premium pricing in international markets.
As pepper continues to play a significant role in global cuisines, Twahirwa urges entrepreneurs in Africa to seize the commercial opportunities presented by this thriving market. With its deep historical and economic significance, peppers are poised to captivate the market’s attention throughout the year.
John-Paul Iwuoha
