Burkina Faso, the world's second-largest exporter of shea nuts, has suspended exports indefinitely to prioritize local processing. This decision, made by the military government, aims to support national industries and is part of a broader strategy to focus on national sovereignty and economic development. The shea nut sector, which was responsible for generating $60 million in 2019, employs a significant portion of the population and is valued for its nutritional and cosmetic properties. Additionally, the government has exempted profits from the production of certain cereals from tax, further supporting local agriculture.