Ghana’s non-traditional export sector has reached an unprecedented milestone, with earnings climbing to $5.006 billion in 2025.
This remarkable performance represents a 30.7 percent increase, far surpassing the 7.53 percent average annual growth recorded over the past decade. The surge signals a significant transformation in Ghana’s export landscape, driven largely by value-added products and strategic market expansion.
The impressive growth in non-traditional exports highlights Ghana’s gradual transition from raw commodity exports to value-added production. Cocoa derivatives have been at the forefront of this transformation, reinforcing the country’s position in global markets beyond raw cocoa beans.
Products such as cocoa paste, butter, and powder have demonstrated exceptional performance. Cocoa paste alone generated $789.3 million, marking a 70.9 percent increase compared to the previous year. Cocoa butter followed with an even more striking growth of 120 percent, reaching $635.7 million.
This shift underscores the importance of industrial processing and manufacturing in enhancing export value. By focusing on semi-processed and finished goods, Ghana is capturing more value within its borders, supporting job creation and industrial growth.
Manufacturing Sector Dominates
According to the 2025 Non-Traditional Export Statistics Report released by the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, the manufacturing and semi-processed sub-sector remains the backbone of the NTE portfolio. This segment accounted for an overwhelming 83.47 percent of total export earnings.
The dominance of this sub-sector reflects sustained investment in processing capacity and industrialization efforts. It also signals growing competitiveness among Ghanaian manufacturers in international markets.
Beyond cocoa derivatives, other products contributed significantly to the export boom. Cashew nuts generated $297.6 million, supported by steady global demand. Articles of plastics recorded a 37.8 percent increase, reaching $275.4 million. Canned tuna also performed strongly, growing by 37.3 percent to $213.5 million.
Shea-based products emerged as another bright spot. Shea nuts experienced a sharp rise of 116.5 percent to $177.8 million, while shea oil reached $174.3 million. These figures highlight the expanding role of agro-processing in Ghana’s export diversification agenda.
Europe Leads Export Destinations
Europe continues to be the largest destination for Ghana’s non-traditional exports. The Netherlands remains the primary hub, importing goods worth $831.1 million. Other key European markets include the United Kingdom with $253.2 million and France with $231.2 million in imports.
The strong performance in Europe reflects established trade relationships and high demand for processed agricultural products. It also demonstrates Ghana’s ability to meet international quality standards.
On the African continent, exports reached $1.50 billion, with the ECOWAS region accounting for more than half of this figure. Togo emerged as the leading destination within the sub-region, importing $232 million worth of goods.
The Alliance of Sahel States also played a significant role, contributing $674.8 million in exports. Burkina Faso alone accounted for $532.2 million, underscoring the importance of regional trade integration.
Challenges in Selected Sectors
Despite the overall positive performance, some sectors faced setbacks. The handicrafts sub-sector recorded a decline, largely due to the reclassification of ceramics into the manufacturing category. This shift affected the reporting structure and reduced the apparent contribution of handicrafts.
Iron and steel products also experienced a slight decline of 1.59 percent, dropping to $316.5 million. This was attributed to fluctuating global prices and increased competition in international markets.
These challenges highlight the need for continuous innovation and market diversification to sustain growth across all export segments.
Strategic Vision for Growth
Leadership at the Ghana Export Promotion Authority remains optimistic about the future of non-traditional exports. Board Chairman Godfred Seidu Jasaw emphasized the long-term goal of achieving $10 billion in NTE earnings by 2030, describing it as highly attainable.
He noted that strategic leadership and policy direction will be critical in sustaining the current growth trajectory. This includes strengthening export promotion initiatives and enhancing the competitiveness of local industries.
Chief Executive Officer Francis Kwarteng Arthur highlighted the importance of increased investment in the sector. He stressed that achieving long-term growth would require high-impact interventions supported by sustained funding and coordinated action.
Outlook for Ghana’s Export Sector
The role of small and medium-sized enterprises in driving export growth cannot be overstated. The Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, called for tailored financial solutions to support SMEs.
She emphasized the need for patient capital and customized funding mechanisms that align with the unique needs of export-oriented businesses. Such financial support is expected to empower SMEs to scale operations, improve quality, and access new markets.
The record-breaking performance of Ghana’s non-traditional exports marks a turning point in the country’s economic development. It reflects the success of policies aimed at diversification and value addition while highlighting the resilience of local industries.
As Ghana continues to strengthen its export base, the focus will remain on expanding processing capacity, enhancing market access, and supporting SMEs. With sustained investment and strategic coordination, the target of $10 billion in NTE earnings by 2030 appears increasingly within reach.
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