Ghana’s non-traditional exports (NTEs) fell by 2.87% in 2024, generating $3.83 billion in earnings, the Ghana Exports Promotion Authority (GEPA) has announced. The decline, compared to 2023, was attributed primarily to reduced exports of iron and steel to the ECOWAS region.
Speaking at the launch of the 2024 Annual NTE Statistics Report, GEPA Chief Executive Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur noted “In 2024, Ghana’s NTEs recorded earnings of $3.83 billion, reaching 152 countries, however, we registered encouraging gains in several other sectors.”
Despite the overall decline, the report highlighted strong performances in value-added sectors. The processed and semi-processed products category dominated, contributing over 83% of total NTE earnings. Cocoa paste emerged as a standout performer, surging by 35.54% on the back of robust demand from Europe and North America.
“This highlights Ghana’s competitive edge in value-added cocoa products,” Arthur added.
The agricultural sector also showed resilience, boosting its share to 13.48% of total exports. Meanwhile, Ghana’s Industrial Arts and Crafts sector experienced a notable 23% growth, reflecting increasing global demand for the country’s cultural and creative exports.
In a call to action, Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Samson Ahi, urged industry players to intensify value addition efforts to enhance Ghana’s export competitiveness.
GEPA disclosed plans to implement targeted initiatives to support export growth, including the continued rollout of the Accelerated Export Development Programme (AEDP). The authority aims to fortify the export ecosystem and build capacity across key sectors to ensure long-term growth and market diversification.
