How to Legally Sell African Food and Products in the UK: Licences, Labelling and Where to Start

Thousands of African diaspora entrepreneurs in the UK want to sell authentic food, groceries, skincare and cultural products — but are held back by uncertainty about rules and where to start. This guide covers everything you need to begin selling legally and confidently.

Step 1: Register Your Business with HMRC

Before you sell a single item, register with HMRC. Most food and product sellers start as sole traders — it is free, straightforward and takes about 10 minutes at gov.uk. You pay tax on any profit above £12,570 annually.

Step 2: Food Business Registration

If you are selling any food product — including packaged groceries, homemade sauces or spice blends — you must register as a food business with your local council at least 28 days before trading. This is free and mandatory. You will also need a Food Hygiene certificate (available online for £20–£40).

Step 3: Product Labelling Requirements

UK food labels must include: product name, full ingredient list, all 14 major allergens highlighted, net weight, best before date, storage instructions, your business name and address, and country of origin. Labels must be in English — even for imported products.

Step 4: Importing African Products

• Get an EORI number from HMRC (free)
• Check UK import tariffs at trade-tariff.service.gov.uk
• Certain food products require health or phytosanitary certificates
• Work with a licensed customs broker for your first shipments

Step 5: Where to Sell

The easiest place to start is EburutuMart — the free African marketplace connecting verified UK sellers with diaspora buyers. No transaction fees, no verification gates. List your products and start selling to a community that is actively looking for exactly what you offer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Selling food without local council registration — this can result in fines
• Using original African packaging without English labelling
• Not declaring allergens — this is a legal requirement and a safety issue
• Skipping public liability insurance if you sell at markets or events

"I spent six months being too scared to start. Once I got registered it took two days. Don't wait." — Chisom, food entrepreneur, Leeds

You Are Ready

The African food and products market in the UK is growing every year. Get registered, get labelled, and get selling. Your community is waiting.