Ghana’s 2024 Trade Landscape: Used Vehicles and Animal Intestines Among Top 10 Imports—–Ghana’s import sector in 2024 has seen a mix of traditional heavyweights and unexpected commodities, according to the latest Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) Trade Report. While fuel and industrial equipment continue to account for the lion’s share of imports, the inclusion of used vehicles and even animal intestines underscores the nation’s evolving trade patterns.
Fuel Leads the Pack, but Used Vehicles Gain Traction
At the forefront of Ghana’s imports, diesel (Automotive Gas Oil – AGO) for the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR) emerged as the most significant, valued at a staggering GH₵28.9 billion (11.6% of total imports). Closely following were light oils and motor spirit (super), amounting to GH₵24.1 billion (9.6%).
Beyond fuel, industrial machinery and construction equipment also played a vital role, with self-propelled bulldozers with 360-degree revolving superstructures ranking among the top imports at GH₵6.2 billion (2.5%). Cement clinker, essential for Ghana’s construction sector, also featured prominently, totaling GH₵4.83 billion (1.9%).
However, a notable addition to this year’s trade data is the rising value of used vehicles (1,500cc–3,000cc), which reached GH₵4.2 billion (1.7%). This reflects Ghana’s growing demand for affordable personal and commercial transport solutions, driven by both economic and logistical factors.
Animal Intestines Make an Unlikely Entry
Perhaps the most unexpected revelation in the report is the inclusion of guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals (excluding fish) in the top 10 imports, valued at GH₵2.69 billion (1.1%). This suggests a strong demand for these byproducts, likely driven by the food processing and pharmaceutical industries.
Other key imports include cereal grains (GH₵3.37 billion), petroleum oils and bituminous minerals (GH₵3.34 billion), kerosene-type jet fuel (ATK) (GH₵3.16 billion), and herbicides and plant-growth regulators (GH₵2.61 billion), reflecting Ghana’s agricultural and industrial priorities.
Despite the substantial import bill, Ghana recorded a trade surplus of GH₵44.7 billion, with total exports hitting GH₵294.9 billion, surpassing imports of GH₵250.2 billion. This positive balance was fueled by strong performances in gold, petroleum, and cocoa exports, reinforcing the nation’s reliance on these key commodities.
As Ghana moves into 2025, the country’s import trends suggest a growing reliance on fuel, industrial equipment, and consumer vehicles, while the emergence of agricultural and animal-based imports highlights the diverse nature of Ghana’s economy. The coming year will likely see a continued focus on infrastructure development, transportation, and agribusiness, shaping the next phase of the country’s economic growth.
