‘Inefficient logistics threatens agric trade competitiveness’
Executive Director and Chief Executive, National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Muhammed Atanda, has said inefficient logistics remain one of the biggest threats to agricultural trade competitiveness. “Logistics is the invisible
- By Daniel Essiet
Executive Director and Chief Executive, National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Muhammed Atanda, has said inefficient logistics remain one of the biggest threats to agricultural trade competitiveness.
“Logistics is the invisible backbone of agricultural exports. When it fails, everything else collapses—from product quality to market access and profitability,” Atanda said.
According to him, the result has been delays of up to three weeks for perishable goods, placing enormous pressure on exporters dealing in time-sensitive products such as frozen and fresh produce.
He noted rising costs have translated into higher food prices and reduced margins for exporters and importers alike.
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The situation, he added, reflected a broader global challenge: weak logistics infrastructure is increasingly becoming a bottleneck in agricultural trade, particularly for developing economies seeking to access international markets.
He noted that delays in transportation not only increase costs but also lead to significant post-harvest losses, especially for perishable commodities.
“In the case of fruits and vegetables, time is critical. A delay of even a few days can mean the difference between premium quality produce and total rejection in international markets. Unfortunately, many developing countries are losing value simply because their logistics systems are not efficient,” Atanda explained.
Atanda stressed that improving logistics infrastructure must be treated as a strategic priority.
“Investment in cold chain systems, modern ports, efficient road and rail networks, and digital supply chain management is no longer optional. It is essential if countries want to compete in the global horticulture market,” he said.
He added that countries with stronger logistics systems are already gaining market share as buyers shift sourcing to more reliable suppliers.
The ongoing crisis has also triggered a realignment in global trade patterns, with countries such as Morocco, Turkey, and Egypt increasing exports to Europe by leveraging proximity and better logistics access. Meanwhile, exporters with weak infrastructure risk being sidelined despite having strong production capacity.
As freight rates remain volatile and geopolitical tensions persist, stakeholders warn that without urgent reforms, poor logistics could continue to undermine global fruit and vegetable trade, deepen supply shortages, and inflate food prices worldwide.
