Millet: A Nutritious Grain for Global Buyers
As demand for alternative grains grows, millet has emerged as a sustainable superfood with exceptional nutritional value. This article provides practical guidance for international buyers seeking premium-quality millet from China, the world's second-largest producer.
How to Find Reliable Millet from China in 2025
Chinese suppliers exported over $120 million worth of millet in 2023, with projections showing 8% annual growth. Key verification steps include:
- Check supplier certifications (ISO, HACCP, Organic)
- Request third-party lab test reports for heavy metals and pesticides
- Verify minimum order quantities (typically 5-25 metric tons)
- Confirm processing methods (traditional stone-milled preferred)
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Millet from China
Seasonality affects pricing - harvest occurs September-November. Shipping options include:
| Container Type | Capacity | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| 20ft FCL | 18-20 MT | $3,800-$5,200 |
| 40ft FCL | 26-28 MT | $5,500-$7,000 |
Types of Millet
China produces three main commercial varieties:
- Pearl Millet - Most drought-resistant (18-22% protein)
- Finger Millet - High calcium content (5x wheat)
- Foxtail Millet - Premium cooking quality
Functions and features of Millet
Key advantages driving global demand:
- Gluten-free with low glycemic index (GI 54-68)
- 30-day shelf life extension compared to wheat flour
- Water-efficient (requires 70% less than rice)
Scenarios of Millet
Commercial applications include:
- Baby food formulations (easy digestibility)
- Brewing traditional beers (African markets)
- Animal feed (15% higher poultry growth rates)
How to Choose Millet
Quality indicators:
- Color: Uniform golden yellow
- Moisture: <12% by weight
- Purity: 99.5% kernel content
- Size: 1.8-2.2mm diameter
Millet Q & A
Q: What's the price range for Chinese millet?
A: $450-$750/MT FOB, depending on variety and quantity.
Q: Are there export restrictions?
A: No quotas, but phytosanitary certificates are mandatory.
Q: Minimum order quantities?
A: Most suppliers require 5MT for bulk orders.
Q: Packaging options?
A: 25kg/50kg PP bags or customized vacuum packs.
Q: Lead time after order?
A: 15-30 days for processing and shipping preparation.
