Chewing gum is a popular confectionery product enjoyed worldwide by people of all ages. It is typically made from a combination of gum base, sweeteners, flavorings, and softeners. The global demand for chewing gum continues to rise, driven by its enjoyable taste, refreshing qualities, and versatility as a snack.

The chewing gum market in Nigeria, like many other countries, is expanding rapidly, presenting a lucrative business opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on the growing demand.

Starting a chewing gum production business in Nigeria can be a rewarding venture with the right planning, investment, and execution.

Chewing gum is a type of candy that is typically composed of a gum base, sweeteners, flavoring agents, and softeners. It is designed to be chewed, not swallowed, and is often used for freshening breath or as a recreational activity. The gum base is the main component of chewing gum and provides its elasticity and chewability. Other ingredients, such as sugar or sugar substitutes, and flavorings like mint, fruit, or spices, give the gum its distinct taste and aroma.

Chewing gum can be sold in various forms, including sticks, tablets, pellets, and liquid-filled gum. It is available in different flavors, catering to diverse consumer preferences.

The history of chewing gum dates back thousands of years, with evidence suggesting that ancient civilizations used tree sap or resin as a form of early gum. The Greeks chewed mastic gum made from the resin of the mastic tree, while ancient Mayans and Native Americans chewed chicle, a natural gum from the sapodilla tree.

Modern chewing gum as we know it today began to take shape in the 19th century when chicle was introduced as a key ingredient in gum production. In 1848, John B. Curtis, an American inventor, started manufacturing chewing gum using chicle and sold it under the name “State of Maine Pure Spruce Gum.” In the late 1800s, the mass production of chewing gum took off with the introduction of mechanized gum-making machines, which helped reduce production costs.

In the 20th century, the introduction of synthetic gum bases and the development of flavored gums led to the evolution of the modern chewing gum market. Brands like Wrigley’s and Trident became household names, and chewing gum became a mainstream product enjoyed by millions of people around the world.

There are several types of chewing gum, each catering to different consumer preferences and tastes. The two primary categories of chewing gum are:

Sugar Gum: This type of gum contains sugar as a primary sweetener. Sugar gum has a traditional taste and is often preferred by those who enjoy the sweetness of regular candy. However, due to increasing health consciousness, sugar gum has been facing competition from sugar-free alternatives.

Sugar-Free Gum: This type of gum is sweetened with sugar substitutes, such as sorbitol, xylitol, or aspartame. Sugar-free gum is often marketed as a healthier alternative, as it has fewer calories and does not contribute to tooth decay.

Chewing gum can also be further categorized based on its form and packaging, such as:

Sticks/Tabs: These are the most common forms of chewing gum, often packaged in foil or paper wraps and sold in individual or multi-piece packs.
Pellets/Pillows: These are small, round, or oval-shaped gum pieces that come in a variety of flavors and sizes.
Liquid-Filled Gum: This type of gum contains a liquid center that bursts when chewed, offering an additional flavor experience.
Others: Other variations include bubble gum, gum balls, and functional gum that may include added benefits like fresh breath or oral health properties.

The global chewing gum market was valued at approximately USD 28.69 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 38.70 billion by 2033. This represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.04% from 2025 to 2033. North America currently dominates the chewing gum market, accounting for over 37.6% of the global market share in 2024, largely due to the popularity of gum in the United States.

The chewing gum market is driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient snacks, as well as innovations in flavors and packaging. The demand for sugar-free gum is also on the rise, owing to greater awareness of health issues related to sugar consumption and the desire for healthier snack alternatives.

In addition, the growing popularity of functional and niche gums, such as gums with added benefits like teeth whitening or stress relief, has expanded the market’s reach.

The chewing gum industry is witnessing several key trends, including:

Health-Conscious Consumers: As health awareness increases, consumers are shifting towards sugar-free and low-calorie options. This trend is expected to drive the growth of sugar-free gums, as well as functional gums with health benefits like teeth whitening, energy boosting, or stress relief.

Innovation in Flavors and Formats: Manufacturers are experimenting with new flavors and gum formats to cater to changing consumer preferences. Liquid-filled gum and gum with multiple layers of flavor are becoming increasingly popular, offering a unique experience to consumers.

E-Commerce Growth: The rise of e-commerce has made it easier for consumers to purchase chewing gum online. With more people shopping online for convenience, many brands are now offering direct-to-consumer sales via their websites or third-party platforms.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Packaging: As sustainability becomes a major concern, many manufacturers are investing in eco-friendly packaging, including biodegradable wrappers and recyclable packaging materials.

Chewing gum production in Nigeria is an emerging sector within the country’s food manufacturing industry. The history of chewing gum production in Nigeria is relatively short compared to other countries, but it is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing consumer demand for chewing gum products.

The Nigerian market for chewing gum is driven by a large population of young people who are more likely to consume gum as a snack. Nigeria’s growing middle class, urbanization, and changing lifestyles also contribute to the increasing demand for convenience foods like chewing gum. The market is largely untapped, with room for local producers to meet domestic demand and potentially export products to neighboring countries.

The raw materials required for chewing gum production in Nigeria include:

Gum Base: This is the most critical ingredient in chewing gum. Gum bases are typically derived from natural substances like chicle, or from synthetic alternatives like styrene-butadiene rubber. Importing gum base can be costly, but local alternatives can be explored.

Sweeteners: Sugar and sugar substitutes like sorbitol, xylitol, and maltitol are commonly used in gum production. These ingredients are readily available in Nigeria and can be sourced locally.

Flavoring Agents: Various flavoring agents are used to give chewing gum its taste. These can range from mint and fruit flavors to more exotic varieties. Nigeria’s agricultural sector provides access to a wide variety of locally sourced flavors.

Softening Agents: These ingredients ensure that the gum remains pliable and chewable. Glycerin and vegetable oils are common softeners in gum production.

There are a number of local producers in the Nigerian chewing gum industry, including companies that manufacture gum both for domestic consumption and for export. Some well-known brands in the Nigerian market include Chup Chup, Bigi, and Gum-Gu. These brands have a significant market presence and continue to introduce innovative products to meet the growing demand.

The demand for chewing gum in Nigeria has seen consistent growth over the years, especially among young people and urban populations. Nigeria’s large and youthful population provides a significant consumer base, with chewing gum being a popular snack and breath-freshener. The rise in disposable incomes, along with the shift toward convenience foods, further supports the market’s expansion.

While there are numerous opportunities, there are challenges to starting a chewing gum production business in Nigeria. These include high importation costs for raw materials, the need for significant capital investment in machinery and infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles. Additionally, competition from established international brands can pose a threat to local producers.

However, with proper planning and execution, entrepreneurs can navigate these challenges. The growing demand for sugar-free and health-conscious gum products offers a promising avenue for differentiation. There is also potential for export to neighboring West African countries, where the market for chewing gum is also growing.

Starting a chewing gum production business in Nigeria is a promising venture that can yield significant returns. With the right resources, planning, and understanding of the market, entrepreneurs can tap into the growing demand for chewing gum in Nigeria and create a successful business.

The key to success lies in identifying gaps in the market, leveraging local raw materials, and innovating with flavors and formats that appeal to Nigerian consumers. By focusing on quality, efficiency, and customer preferences, the Nigerian chewing gum market offers tremendous opportunities for growth and profitability.

If you require a bankable feasibility report on chewing gum production in Nigeria, please contact us using any of the means below.

Anaekwe Everistus Nnamdi

Founder & Market Research Analyst Foraminifera Market Research Limited foraminiferaltd@gmail.com or +2348033782777 (call and whatsapp)

Investment Opportunities in Nigeria | Business Opportunities in Nigeria | Profitable Industries in Nigeria | Investment Landscape in Nigeria | SME Opportunities in Nigeria | Foreign Direct Investment in Nigeria | Emerging Markets in Nigeria |