In Summary
- The continent’s economic growth is projected to climb from 3.4% in 2024 to 3.7% in 2025, signaling a stronger foundation for agricultural expansion.
- South Africa, Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya, and Morocco are among the countries predicted to maintain or enhance their positions as top agricultural exporters.
- As the global demand for agricultural products rises, these nations are expected to take advantage of their strengths in crops such as cocoa, coffee, tea, fruits, and beverages.
Deep Dive!!
As we enter 2025, Africa’s agricultural export sector shows no signs of slowing down. With global demand growing for a variety of African crops, the continent continues to play a significant role in the global agricultural market. The African Development Bank's ambitious "Feed Africa" initiative aims to transform Africa into a net food exporter by 2025, underscoring the continent's commitment to agricultural advancement. While the full data for 2025 will unfold throughout the year, insights from 2024 offer a clear picture of the countries poised to dominate. This article ranks the top 10 African countries based on their agricultural export performance in 2024, projecting their continued leadership into 2025.
10. Ghana
Ghana remains one of the world’s leading cocoa exporters. The country’s stronghold in the cocoa market shared with Côte d'Ivoire, positions it as a key player in the agricultural sector. Cocoa continues to account for a substantial share of Ghana’s agricultural exports, contributing significantly to its economy. In 2025, Ghana’s export outlook is positive, with increasing global demand for cocoa expected to keep the country at the forefront of the global market. Moreover, the country’s consistent cocoa production and strategic trade relationships are expected to solidify its status as a top agricultural exporter.
9. Nigeria
Nigeria’s agricultural export profile has been evolving over recent years, with the country showing increased activity in the wheat import market. Despite being a major oil exporter, Nigeria has been growing as an importer of agricultural products, particularly wheat. This shift in its agricultural trade highlights Nigeria’s growing demand for key imports to satisfy its domestic market. In 2025, the country’s wheat imports are expected to remain strong, contributing to Nigeria's influence in agricultural trade. With ongoing improvements in agricultural production, Nigeria’s broader agricultural exports, like cassava and maize, may also experience growth.
8. Benin
Benin has been a major contributor to Africa’s cotton exports, holding a significant share of the continent's cotton trade. Cotton production continues to be a crucial part of the country's agricultural exports, with strong demand in global markets, particularly in the textile industry. In 2025, Benin is expected to maintain its dominant position in cotton exports. The country’s cotton production is projected to remain steady, and as global demand for cotton textiles increases, Benin is well-positioned to benefit from this ongoing trend, ensuring continued growth in its agricultural export sector.
7. Tunisia
Tunisia has seen a steady rise in exports of animal and vegetable fats and oils. The country’s contribution to Africa's total exports of these products is notable, and the demand for edible oils has been growing globally. As a key exporter of olive oil and other vegetable oils, Tunisia’s agricultural export sector continues to play an essential role in the global trade of fats and oils. Looking ahead to 2025, Tunisia is expected to experience further growth in this sector, driven by the increasing demand for healthy cooking oils and fats in international markets. Its strategic location and established trade agreements with Europe give Tunisia an advantage in maintaining its status as a top exporter in this sector.
6. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has long been a significant exporter of tobacco, with the country commanding a major share of Africa’s tobacco exports. Tobacco remains one of Zimbabwe’s most important agricultural exports, and its prominence in global markets is reflected in its strong export performance. In 2025, Zimbabwe’s tobacco exports are expected to grow further, as global demand remains high, particularly from markets in Europe and the Middle East. The country’s established tobacco production infrastructure and its reputation for high-quality tobacco ensure its continued success in this sector.
5. Sudan
Sudan has made significant strides in the global oilseeds market, particularly in the export of sesame seeds and sunflower oil. This sector has become increasingly important to Sudan’s agricultural export economy, with the country holding a strong share of Africa’s oilseeds exports. Looking to 2025, Sudan is projected to see continued growth in oilseed exports, driven by increasing global demand for plant-based oils and proteins. Sudan’s favorable climate for oilseed crops, combined with improvements in production and export logistics, will allow the country to remain a key player in the global oilseeds market.
4. Morocco
Morocco has established itself as a major exporter of vegetables, roots, and tubers. The country’s export performance in this category continues to be strong, with Moroccan vegetables, particularly tomatoes and other fresh produce, in high demand across Europe and beyond. As we approach 2025, Morocco’s position in the vegetable export market is set to strengthen. The country's proximity to Europe, along with its well-established trade routes, positions it as a key supplier of fresh produce to European markets, ensuring continued growth in agricultural exports in the coming years.
3. Kenya
Kenya remains one of the leading exporters of coffee, tea, and spices in Africa. The country's agricultural sector has long been known for producing some of the world's highest-quality coffee and tea, and this trend is expected to continue into 2025. Kenya’s coffee and tea exports represent a significant portion of Africa’s agricultural trade, with global demand for these products remaining high. As consumers worldwide continue to seek high-quality coffee and tea, Kenya’s role as a leading exporter is projected to grow, ensuring its place among the top agricultural exporters in Africa.
2. Côte d'Ivoire
Côte d'Ivoire is a dominant force in the global cocoa market, contributing to more than half of Africa’s cocoa exports. The country’s cocoa sector continues to thrive, with demand for chocolate products driving global cocoa consumption. As one of the world’s largest producers of cocoa, Côte d'Ivoire is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in this sector. Projections for 2025 indicate continued growth in the cocoa export market, supported by strong demand and ongoing investments in cocoa farming. Côte d'Ivoire’s role as a major player in the global cocoa trade is expected to remain strong, with the country solidifying its position as a top agricultural exporter.
1. South Africa
South Africa has long been the leader in African agricultural exports, and its dominance is expected to continue into 2025. The country’s agricultural sector is diverse, with fruits and nuts, sugar, and beverages representing a significant portion of its exports. South Africa is the leading exporter of fruits and nuts in Africa, accounting for a substantial share of the continent’s exports in these categories. The country's performance in beverage exports, particularly wines and spirits, also sets it apart as a global agricultural exporter. In 2025, South Africa is projected to continue its strong performance across multiple agricultural sectors, benefiting from a favorable climate, advanced infrastructure, and growing global demand for its products. As the largest agricultural exporter in Africa, South Africa is expected to maintain its leadership in the sector for the foreseeable future
