Ghana’s merchandise exports have surpassed imports for the first time in nearly two decades, according to the latest report by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).
The report, Ghana’s Merchandise Trade Statistics 2004–2025: Two Decades in Review, shows that exports accounted for 61.3 per cent of Ghana’s total merchandise trade in 2025, up from 32.1 per cent in 2004. Over the same period, the share of imports fell from 67.9 per cent to 38.7 per cent.
Government Statistician Dr Alhassan Iddrisu said Ghana recorded a trade surplus in only seven of the 21 years covered by the report. The country returned to a trade surplus in 2023 and has remained in positive territory since then.
The trade surplus increased from GH¢5.3 billion in 2023 to GH¢44.7 billion in 2024, before reaching a record GH¢148.3 billion in 2025.
Merchandise exports also recorded significant growth, rising from US$1.93 billion in 2004 to US$32 billion in 2025. Imports increased from US$4.09 billion to US$20.5 billion over the same period, while total merchandise trade expanded from US$6 billion to US$52.5 billion.
Dr Iddrisu said the improvement in the trade balance had strengthened Ghana’s position in international trade and contributed to increased foreign exchange earnings.
He cautioned, however, that sustaining the gains would require greater diversification of Ghana’s export base and increased value addition to locally produced goods.
Gold remained Ghana’s dominant export commodity in 2025, accounting for 63.1 per cent of total exports.
The report recommended increased investment in local processing industries, stronger support for non-traditional exports and measures to improve the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises in international markets.
