Ghana’s non-traditional export earnings could exceed GHS 180 billion ($15 billion) by 2030. Davis Korboe, President of the Federation of Associations of Ghanaian Exporters (FAGE), made this projection. This significant increase depends on strengthened support for value addition and export development.
This outcome requires collaboration from the government, financial institutions, and industry stakeholders. Mr. Korboe highlighted the sector’s robust growth potential. This growth is evident from Ghana's early achievement of over GHS 60 billion ($5 billion) in non-traditional export earnings.
Ghana’s economic narrative increasingly focuses on diversifying its export base beyond traditional commodities like gold and cocoa. Non-traditional exports cover a range of products, including agricultural produce, processed goods, and handicrafts. Increasing these exports helps stabilise the cedi and creates more jobs. The country's trade balance also improves with higher non-traditional export revenues.
Mr. Korboe presented this outlook during the Eye on Port media forum. The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) powered the event. He noted that Ghana achieved the GHS 60 billion ($5 billion) milestone earlier than his 2025 Horti Expo projection of 2027. This early success indicates a positive growth trajectory for the national economy.
The FAGE President identified several key areas to drive future export growth. These include the feed industry, coconut production, and mango cultivation. Programmes by the Tree Crops Development Authority also offer significant potential. The feed industry alone could create over 80,000 jobs annually with adequate support.
Enhanced government support is crucial for export-oriented industries. This includes favourable policies, infrastructure development, and institutional collaboration. Mr. Korboe specifically called for a dedicated financing vehicle. This vehicle would support producers and exporters of non-traditional export commodities. Such financing would boost investment in value addition across sectors.
Investing in value addition allows Ghana to maximise earnings from its agricultural products. It also creates more employment opportunities nationwide. Furthermore, it helps reduce the country’s over-reliance on raw commodity exports. This strategy aligns with Ghana's broader industrialisation agenda. The ultimate goal is to move from exporting raw materials to finished goods.
Policymakers will closely monitor progress in non-traditional export sectors. The government's commitment to implementing supportive policies will be key. Financial institutions must also increase their lending and investment in these areas. The market will react positively to tangible steps towards achieving this GHS 180 billion export target.