Ghana exported mangoes worth US$75 million in 2024, a 21% increase compared to US$62.05 million in 2023, according to data from the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA). The growth continues a trend that saw exports rise 28% between 2020 and 2021 to reach US$64.6 million.
The United Kingdom remained Ghana's top destination, with exports to the market expanding by 21% between 2020 and 2024. The UK imported US$286.95 million worth of mangoes globally in 2024, ranking fourth among the world's largest importers after the United States, China, and the Netherlands. Ghana was the UK's second-largest supplier after Brazil and ranked 13th globally among mango exporters in 2024. Within Africa, Ghana maintained second place behind Egypt.
Performance across Europe varied. Exports to Belgium fell by 14% in volume and 16% in value between 2020 and 2024. In contrast, exports to Germany and the Netherlands rose, while Switzerland showed 17% growth in 2024 after earlier declines. Globally, mango imports rose 3% over the past five years, with the United States holding 23.2% of the market, followed by China (15.6%), the Netherlands (6.9%), the UK (6.6%), and Germany (6.1%).
Post-harvest challenges remain the sector's main constraint. Inadequate storage, transport, and processing infrastructure continue to limit Ghana's ability to expand exports. Industry experts estimate that addressing these deficiencies could substantially increase volumes and revenues.
GEPA has advised exporters to diversify destinations beyond Europe, identifying Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Kazakhstan, and Nigeria as potential growth markets. Nigeria is highlighted as a natural extension market because of proximity, language, and tariff arrangements. Regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area may further strengthen these opportunities.
The UK mango market itself showed growth, reaching US$267 million in 2024, a 31% increase from 2023. Ghana is positioned to continue supplying this demand, but requires investment in infrastructure and logistics to sustain competitiveness.
Government support programs, including quality control initiatives and certification processes, have contributed to recent performance. However, continued investment from both the public and private sectors in processing and storage is seen as necessary for Ghana to improve its global ranking and increase foreign exchange earnings from mango exports.
Source: News Ghana
