According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) Trade Report, Ghana’s significant imports in 2024 include diesel, light oils, and notably, animal guts. Used vehicles ranked fifth, while total imports reached GH₵250.2 billion. Ghana also reported a trade surplus of GH₵44.7 billion due to strong gold, petroleum, and cocoa exports, reflecting diverse economic needs as the country enters 2025.
In 2024, Ghana’s import landscape was prominently characterized by fuel, machinery, and agricultural products, as indicated in the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) Trade Report. Notably, animal by-products such as guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals appeared on the list, reflecting some of the country’s diverse import requirements. Used vehicles (ranging from 1,500cc to 3,000cc) were also prominently imported, ranking fifth with a value of GH₵4.2 billion, which represents 1.7% of total imports.
The leading import was diesel (Automotive Gas Oil – AGO) destined for the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), accounting for GH₵28.9 billion or 11.6% of the total. Following closely were light oils and motor spirit, with an import value of GH₵24.1 billion, representing 9.6%. Other significant imports comprised bulldozers, cement clinker, and herbicides, contributing to the diverse needs of Ghana’s economy.
Despite the high volume of imports totaling GH₵250.2 billion, Ghana achieved a favorable trade surplus of GH₵44.7 billion, with total exports soaring to GH₵294.9 billion. The trade surplus was largely propelled by strong performances in gold, petroleum, and cocoa exports, indicating robust economic health.
With the continuous dominance of fuel and industrial equipment in the import sector, the inclusion of animal intestines and used vehicles signifies Ghana’s widening trade demands as it approaches 2025. The diversified import list reflects both the changing needs of the market and the evolving economic conditions across various sectors within the country.
The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) Trade Report for 2024 reveals key insights into the country’s import dynamics. Diesel emerged as the top import, followed by light oils and machinery. Surprisingly, animal by-products and used vehicles also feature prominently in the list. Despite substantial imports, Ghana maintained a trade surplus, largely attributed to strong export performances in various sectors. This highlights the nation’s diversified import needs heading into the future.
Original Source: 3news.com
