Dangote Group says Nigeria set to Become Net Exporter of Polypropylene

Dangote Group Limited says Nigeria is set to become a net exporter of polypropylene following the commissioning of Africa’s largest polypropylene plant at its Lagos refinery complex. The development marks a significant achievement for the country, which currently imports nearly 250,000 metric tonnes annually—about 90% of its consumption.

Dangote noted that the new facility, which became operational since March 2025 has an annual production capacity of 830,000 metric tonnes, adding that the plant will not only bridge the domestic supply gap but also push Nigeria into the global market as a competitive exporter of polypropylene.

Polypropylene from the refinery was showcased at the 12th edition of PROPAK West Africa 2025, the region’s leading exhibition for packaging, plastics, printing, and processing industries. Industry leaders, including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), commended the product as a “game changer.”

Dr. Segun Alabi, Assistant Director of Corporate Affairs at Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), confirmed readiness to partner with Dangote.

Alabi emphasized “Polypropylene is a vital raw material for many of our members. With local production in surplus, demand can now be met both locally and internationally. Instead of relying on imports, users can now source locally. We’re fully prepared to work with Dangote to push polypropylene into the Nigerian market and export it as a source of foreign exchange.”

Event organisers also applauded Dangote’s participation, while George Pearson, Regional Director for West Africa at Montgomery Group Afrocet, said the company’s presence as exhibitor, partner, and sponsor added prestige to PROPAK.

“If any company can deliver transformative impact in this space, it’s Dangote,” Pearson added.

Equally, Vinmar International LLC commended the launch as transformational, while its General Manager for Export Operations in Nigeria, Mr. Shridhar Krishnamurthy, said: “Dangote is among the world’s leading brands in this space. Many global plastic producers are eager to engage. It’s high time Africa had a reliable, high-quality supplier.”

The new plant is expected to reduce imports, strengthen the naira, and increase domestic manufacturing capabilities. Products are supplied in 25kg bags for the local market, while a strategic distribution partnership with Vinmar Group will boost global exports.

With global polypropylene production expected to grow by more than 25 million metric tonnes before 2030, Dangote affirmed that Nigeria is well positioned to benefit from rising demand while reducing foreign exchange pressure from imports.