Ghana recorded a US$4.3 billion trade surplus in the first quarter of 2026, largely driven by strong growth in gold exports, according to the latest data from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).
The figures were published in the First Quarter Trade Newsletter, which provides an overview of Ghana’s export and import performance during the first three months of 2026.
According to the report, Ghana exported goods valued at approximately US$10.2 billion during the period, while the country’s total imports stood at about US$5.9 billion.
The strong export performance, particularly from the gold sector, helped Ghana maintain a significant positive trade balance and strengthened the country’s external trade position.
Ghana Export and Import Performance
Government Statistician Dr Alhassan Iddrissu explained the relationship between Ghana’s export earnings and import expenditure.
He noted that for every GH¢100 earned through exports, about 58 per cent was spent on imports, highlighting the scale of goods and services flowing into the country compared with export earnings.
The latest Ghana trade data points to continued strength in the country’s export sector, with gold remaining a major contributor to export revenue.
The US$4.3 billion trade surplus also reflects Ghana’s ability to generate substantially more foreign exchange from merchandise exports than it spent on imports during the first quarter of 2026.
The development is expected to remain important for Ghana’s economic growth, foreign exchange reserves, currency stability and balance of payments position as the country seeks to strengthen its international trade performance.
Source: newsthemegh.com