Used Vehicles, animal guts among Ghana’s top 10 imports in 2024 – GSS report

In 2024, Ghana’s major imports were primarily dominated by fuel, machinery, and agricultural products. However, an unexpected item on the list was the guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals, as highlighted in the latest Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) Trade Report. The report indicates that used vehicles, specifically those with engine capacities between 1,500cc and 3,000cc, ranked as Ghana’s fifth most imported item, totaling GH₵4.2 billion, which accounts for 1.7% of total imports. Additionally, the import value of animal guts, bladders, and stomachs (excluding fish) reached GH₵2.69 billion, earning a place in the top 10 imports.1%).

Topping the list of imports was diesel (Automotive Gas Oil – AGO) for the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR), which accounted for GH₵28.9 billion (11.6%), followed by light oils and motor spirit (super) at GH₵24.1 billion (9.6%). Other major imports included bulldozers, cement clinker, and herbicides. Despite the high import bill, Ghana’s trade surplus stood at GH₵44.7 billion, with total exports reaching GH₵294.9 billion—outpacing imports of GH₵250.2 billion.

The positive trade balance was largely driven by strong performances in gold, petroleum, and cocoa exports. While fuel and industrial equipment continue to lead Ghana’s import market, the inclusion of animal intestines and used cars highlights the country’s diverse trade demands heading into 2025.

Ghana’s top 10 imports in 2024

1. Diesel – Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) for TOR – GH₵28.93 billion (11.6%)
2. Light oils, motor spirit, super – GH₵24.12 billion (9.6%)
3. Self-propelled bulldozers with 360° revolving superstructure – GH₵6.20 billion (2.5%)
4. Cement clinker – GH₵4.83 billion (1.9%)
5. Used vehicles (1,500cc–3,000cc) – GH₵4.20 billion (1.7%)
6. Cereal grains, worked but not rolled or flaked – GH₵3.37 billion (1.3%)
7. Petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous minerals, crude – GH₵3.34 billion (1.3%)
8. Medium oils, Kerosene-type jet fuel (ATK) – GH₵3.16 billion (1.3%)
9. Guts, bladders, and stomachs of animals (excluding fish) – GH₵2.69 billion (1.1%)
10. Herbicides, anti-sprouting products, and plant-growth regulators – GH₵2.61 billion (1.0%)

By: ByEvans Effah