Ghana Joins Africa’s Top Six in Intra-African Trade

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Ghana Joins Africa’s Top Six in Intra-African Trade

Ghana has emerged as one of Africa’s top six economies in intra-African trade, according to new figures showing the country’s exports to the continent jumped from $3.5 billion in 2023 to $4.8 billion in 2024. This growth gives Ghana a 3.8% share of all intra-African exports—ranking just behind South Africa, Nigeria, and Congo.

On the import side, Ghana contributed 1.7% of total intra-African imports, indicating a balanced but still export-heavy relationship with the rest of the continent. Overall, Ghana’s merchandise exports hit $19.68 billion in 2024, a 17% increase from the previous year—fueled by stronger demand, improving logistics, and growing investment in trade-enabling infrastructure.

From Minerals to Manufacturing: Ghana’s Diversification Playbook

While mineral fuels remain a top export, Ghana is making visible strides in shifting its trade base toward higher value-added goods. The report notes deliberate investments in industrial value chains and logistics as part of the country’s long-term effort to reduce dependence on raw materials and embrace light manufacturing and processing.

This diversification aligns with Ghana’s broader advocacy for African financial self-reliance. The country has been vocal in supporting the African Union’s call for member states to channel at least 30% of their reserves into African Multilateral Financial Institutions—a move aimed at strengthening homegrown capital markets and regional value chains.

West African Trade Dynamics: Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire in Focus

In the West African sub-region, Ghana’s trade ties with neighbors like Côte d’Ivoire continue to evolve. Côte d’Ivoire, a regional trade hub, imports crude oil—primarily from Nigeria—and re-exports refined petroleum products across the region. These re-exports account for over 50% of Côte d’Ivoire’s intra-African trade, with Ghana being one of its key destinations.

As trade routes become more integrated and infrastructure improves, Ghana’s growing role in intra-African commerce could boost its influence in shaping AfCFTA implementation and regional industrial policy—positioning the country not just as a resource exporter, but as a vital node in Africa’s evolving trade map.