According to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), Ghana’s top imports in 2024 include diesel, light oils, used vehicles, and animal entrails. Despite high import costs, a trade surplus of GH₵44.7 billion reflects strong exports in gold, cocoa, and petroleum. The list underscores a diverse trading landscape with emerging demands.
In 2024, Ghana’s import landscape is characterized by substantial imports of fuel, machinery, and agricultural products, as reported by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS). Surprisingly, among the top ten imports, animal guts, bladders, and stomachs are included, emphasizing diverse trade needs. Used vehicles falling in the 1,500cc to 3,000cc range are ranked fifth, amounting to GH₵4.2 billion, constituting 1.7% of total imports.
Leading the list of imports is diesel (Automotive Gas Oil – AGO) for the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), with an expenditure of GH₵28.9 billion (11.6%). Light oils and motor spirit (super) account for GH₵24.1 billion (9.6%), followed by significant imports like self-propelled bulldozers, cement clinker, and herbicides. Despite the high import levels, Ghana maintained a trade surplus of GH₵44.7 billion, with total exports reaching GH₵294.9 billion.
The robust trade balance stems from thriving exports in gold, petroleum, and cocoa. While fuel and industrial equipment continue to dominate imports, the entry of animal intestines and used vehicles marks an interesting facet of Ghana’s trading profile as it approaches 2025. The complete list of top imports for 2024 is highlighted below:
1. Diesel – Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) for TOR – GH₵28.93 billion (11.6%)
2. Light oils, motor spirit, super – GH₵24.12 billion (9.6%)
3. Self-propelled bulldozers with 360° revolving superstructure – GH₵6.20 billion (2.5%)
4. Cement clinker – GH₵4.83 billion (1.9%)
5. Used vehicles (1,500cc–3,000cc) – GH₵4.20 billion (1.7%)
6. Cereal grains, worked but not rolled or flaked – GH₵3.37 billion (1.3%)
7. Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, crude – GH₵3.34 billion (1.3%)
8. Medium oils, Kerosene-type jet fuel (ATK) – GH₵3.16 billion (1.3%)
9. Guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals (excluding fish) – GH₵2.69 billion (1.1%)
10. Herbicides, anti-sprouting products, and plant-growth regulators – GH₵2.61 billion (1.0%).
In conclusion, Ghana’s imports in 2024 reveal a mix of essential commodities including fuels, machinery, and notable agricultural products like animal guts and used vehicles. The nation enjoys a positive trade balance, primarily due to strong export performance in key sectors. As Ghana progresses towards 2025, these import dynamics indicate diverse market demands and economic resilience.
Original Source: 3news.com
