Ghana recorded strong export performance in the first two months of 2026, with total earnings reaching $6.2 billion. This represents a notable rise compared to the $4.2 billion generated during the same period in 2024.
The country also closed 2025 on a high note, posting a record export value of $31.1 billion, largely driven by the continued dominance of gold in the export mix. Gold alone brought in $20 billion last year, nearly doubling the $10.3 billion recorded in 2024.
Gold leads as cocoa slips
Data from the latest Summary of Financial and Economic Indicators (March 2026) shows gold remained the top contributor to export earnings, generating $4.2 billion between January and February—up from $2.3 billion a year earlier.
In contrast, cocoa exports saw a decline, falling to $956 million from $1.1 billion over the same period. Earnings from other exports also dipped slightly to $540 million, down from $596 million in 2024.
Imports steady, surplus widens
On the import front, Ghana’s expenditure remained unchanged at $2.5 billion for the first two months of 2026. Out of this, oil imports accounted for $825 million, while non-oil imports stood at $1.6 billion.
The surge in export earnings pushed Ghana’s trade surplus to $3.2 billion, an improvement from the $2.1 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2024.
Overall, the stronger trade position was largely supported by increased export receipts, particularly from gold.
