Ghana’s handicraft exports grow by 22% in 2024

Ghana’s Industrial Arts and Crafts sub-sector saw a 23% increase in export earnings in 2024. This contributed 3% to total non-traditional exports, up from 2.43% in 2023. The information comes from the 2024 Non-Traditional Export (NTE) Statistics Report by the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA).

The growth was driven by kente products, which grew by an impressive 523%. This reflects rising international demand for Ghanaian textiles. Handicraft items also performed well, increasing by 440%. Bamboo and cane furniture exports rose by 274%.

Other notable performers included beads, which increased by 114%. Ceramic products saw a modest rise of 23%, while hides and skins contributed a growth of 26%.

However, some areas experienced declines. Mats dropped by 32%, statuettes fell by 31%, and traditional musical instruments decreased by 19%. These changes indicate shifting global preferences.

GEPA attributes the sector’s overall growth to rising global interest in handmade and sustainable products. The Authority emphasized the need for continued investment in product development and market access to maintain this growth.