Non-traditional export dips by 2.87% in 2024 - GEPA   

The Ghana Exports Promotion Authority (GEPA) announced non-traditional exports (NTE) earnings of $3.83 billion in 2024. This marks a 2.87% decrease compared to 2023.

Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur, GEPA's Chief Executive, explained the decline. He noted it was due to reduced iron and steel exports to the ECOWAS region.

In 2024, Ghana’s NTEs reached 152 countries with total earnings of $3.83 billion. Despite the decline, several sectors showed encouraging gains.

The manufacturing and semi-processed sectors contributed over 83% of total earnings. Cocoa paste performed particularly well, growing by 35.54%. This growth was driven by strong demand from Europe and North America.

This performance highlights Ghana’s competitive edge in value-added cocoa products. The agricultural sector increased its contribution to 13.48%. Meanwhile, the Industrial Arts and Crafts sector grew nearly 23%, showing global interest in Ghana’s creative exports.

Deputy Minister of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Samson Ahi urged stakeholders to focus on value addition. He believes this will help increase the country’s exports.

GEPA plans to implement measures to boost Ghana’s NTEs. This includes supporting the Accelerated Export Development Programme.