Exploring Africa Imports: Top African Buyers & Imports by Country 2024-25

Africa is a continent rich in resources and culture, and its import market is no exception. Africa has a diverse import market that includes everything from raw materials to finished products. The continent imports goods from all over the world, with some countries being major players in certain industries. In recent years, African countries have been focusing on improving their trade relationships with both traditional partners and emerging markets. According to the Africa trade data, the total value of African imports reached $719 billion in 2024, a 2.4% increase from the previous year. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top African buyers and imports by country for the years 2024-25, with a key focus on Africa imports and African trade data.

• Total African Imports (2024): $719 billion, marking a 2.4% growth from 2023.
• Projected Imports (2025): Estimated at $800 billion, driven by infrastructure investments and rising consumer demand.

Intra-African Trade Reached $208 billion in 2024: Africa Trade Report 2024

• Intra-African trade grew by 7.7% in 2024-25, reaching $208 billion, up from $193 billion in 2023.
• This growth is largely attributed to the continued implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
• The AfCFTA rollout has helped reduce trade barriers, increase product diversity, and shift African economies toward internal markets.
• Southern Africa led intra-African trade with $58.1 billion, making up over 27% of the total.
• West Africa ranked second with $52.8 billion, followed by East Africa with $46.8 billion.
• North Africa and Central Africa lagged, recording $31 billion and $19.4 billion, respectively.
• South Africa remains the top intra-African exporter, responsible for 25% of all intra-African exports, as per the South Africa export data. South Africa is also the top importer in Africa, as per South Africa import data. 
• Other leading players include Egypt and Nigeria, which continue to drive regional trade volumes.
• Improved national trade policies and investment in transport infrastructure also contributed to trade expansion.
• Africa’s total trade (global + regional) increased by 5.8%, hitting $1.4 trillion in 2024.
• African exports rose sharply by 9.8%, reaching $682 billion, supported by commodity price stability.
• African Imports increased modestly by 2.4%, totaling $719 billion.
• Africa’s trade deficit narrowed significantly to $37 billion, down from $80 billion in 2023.
• The European Union remained Africa’s largest trade partner, accounting for 31% of exports and 29% of imports.
• China followed with 18.3% of imports and 12.6% of exports, maintaining a strong influence on trade flows.

Top 10 Imports of Africa: List of the Major African Imports

Africa is home to various imports that significantly influence the continent's economy. The top 10 imports of Africa, comprising a diverse range of products, contribute substantially to the region's trade. Among the major African imports are machinery, electronics, vehicles, mineral fuels, pharmaceuticals, plastics, cereals, and processed food items. The top 10 goods that Africa imports, as per the Africa trade data and Africa import data for 2024, include:

1. Mineral fuels and oils (HS code 27): $95.92 billion (14.63%)

Mineral fuels and oils are essential imports for many African countries due to the continent's reliance on energy. These imports include petroleum products, natural gas, and coal, which are used for power generation, transportation, and industrial processes.

2. Nuclear reactors and machinery (HS code 84): $74.10 billion (11.3%)

As African economies continue to grow, the demand for machinery and equipment, including nuclear reactors, has increased. These imports support various industries such as manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure development.

3. Electrical machinery (HS code 85): $52.95 billion (8.08%)

The importation of electrical machinery and equipment is crucial for the development of Africa's energy infrastructure and technological capabilities. These imports include items such as generators, transformers, and telecommunications equipment.

4. Vehicles (HS code 87): $47.22 billion (7.2%)

The automotive industry plays a significant role in Africa's import market, with countries importing a large number of vehicles for personal and commercial use. The demand for cars, trucks, and motorcycles continues to grow across the continent.

5. Plastics and articles thereof (HS code 39): $27.43 billion (4.18%)

Plastics and plastic products are important imports for Africa's manufacturing sector, used in various industries such as packaging, construction, and consumer goods. These imports help support local production and economic growth.

6. Cereals (HS code 10): $23.69 billion (3.61%)

Cereals such as wheat, maize, and rice are staple food items in many African countries, driving the import demand for these essential commodities. Imports of cereals help ensure food security and stability in the face of changing weather patterns and production challenges.

7. Ships, boats, floating structures (HS code 89): $18.75 billion (2.86%)

Given Africa's extensive coastline and reliance on maritime trade, the importation of ships, boats, and floating structures is crucial for the continent's transportation networks. These imports support both domestic and international trade activities.

8. Pharmaceutical products (HS code 30): $17.09 billion (2.61%)

The importation of pharmaceutical products is vital for Africa's healthcare systems, ensuring access to essential medicines, vaccines, and healthcare supplies. These imports are critical in supporting public health initiatives and disease prevention efforts.

9. Articles of iron or steel (HS code 73): $16.26 billion (2.48%)

Iron and steel products are key imports for Africa's construction, manufacturing, and infrastructure development projects. These materials are used in various applications, from building materials to machinery and equipment production.

10. Iron and steel (HS code 72): $15.77 billion (2.41%)

Iron and steel imports remain essential for Africa's industrial and construction sectors, supporting the continent's growth and development initiatives. These materials are used in various infrastructure projects, manufacturing processes, and consumer goods production. 

Top 10 African Importers: Africa Imports by Country

The top ten African importers play a crucial role in shaping the continent's trade landscape. These countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, and Egypt, are significant African players in importing goods from around the globe. Each country has its unique blend of imported products, reflecting its individual economic needs and consumer preferences. The top 10 countries in Africa that import the most goods, or the top 10 African importers, as per the Africa shipment data and Africa imports by country for 2024, include:

1. South Africa: $101.24 billion

South Africa tops the list as the largest importer in Africa, with import figures reaching a staggering $101.24 billion in 2024. The country's diverse economy and strong industrial base contribute to its significant imports across various sectors.

2. Egypt: $77.64 billion

Egypt follows closely behind South Africa, with imports totaling $77.64 billion in 2024. As one of the most populous countries in Africa, Egypt's import market is driven by consumer goods, energy products, and industrial machinery, as per the Egypt import data.

3. Morocco: $62.33 billion

Morocco is the third-largest importer in Africa, with import figures amounting to $62.33 billion in 2024. The country's strategic location and well-established trade relations contribute to its robust import market.

4. Nigeria: $47.19 billion

Nigeria, known for its oil-rich economy, ranks fourth on the list of top African importers with import figures of $47.19 billion in 2024. The country's import market is dominated by petroleum products, machinery, and consumer goods, as per Nigeria customs import data.

5. Algeria: $42.62 billion

Algeria is another key player in the African import sector, with import figures of $42.62 billion in 2024. The country's imports primarily consist of machinery, electronics, and food products to meet the demands of its growing population.

6. Liberia: $29.13 billion

Liberia is a significant importer in Africa, with import figures reaching $29.13 billion in 2024. The country's import market is driven by a variety of products, including machinery, fuel, and consumer goods.

7. Kenya: $20.20 billion

Kenya is a major player in the East African import market, with import figures of $20.20 billion in 2024, as per Kenya customs import data. The country's strategic location and well-developed infrastructure make it a hub for trade in the region.

8. Tunisia: $20.04 billion

Tunisia's import market continues to grow steadily, with import figures amounting to $20.04 billion in 2024. The country's imports include textiles, machinery, and agricultural products to support its diverse economy.

9. Ghana: $19.98 billion

Ghana ranks ninth on the list of top African importers, with import figures of $19.98 billion in 2024. The country's imports consist of machinery, consumer goods, and petroleum products to meet the needs of its growing economy. Machinery is the biggest import of Ghana, as per Ghana customs import data of Machinery. 

10. Tanzania: $19.38 billion

Tanzania rounds out the top 10 African importers, with import figures totaling $19.38 billion in 2024. The country's import market is driven by a wide range of products, including machinery, chemicals, and electronics. Tanzania imports the most goods from South Africa in the Intra-African trade, as per customs data on Tanzania imports from South Africa. 

List of Top Importing Companies in Africa (2024): African Buyers & Importers Database 

The African Buyers & Importers Database is a valuable resource for businesses looking to explore new opportunities in the African market. This comprehensive database showcases the top importing companies across various industries, providing insights into potential partners and buyers in Africa. The top 10 African buyers and Importers, as per the Africa Importers Data and African Buyers List for 2024, include: 

Key Insights

• EGPC: Egypt's state-owned oil company led imports in 2024, with reported figures reaching $10.5 billion in the first nine months, primarily sourcing from Middle Eastern countries.
• Dangote Group: Nigeria's conglomerate significantly increased its imports due to the operational demands of its new refinery, importing crude oil from various countries, including the USA and Angola.
• Sonatrach: Algeria's national oil company maintained substantial import levels to support its operations, sourcing equipment and services mainly from European and Asian countries.
• OCP Group: Morocco's phosphate giant continued to import machinery and chemicals essential for fertilizer production, with Germany, China, and the USA being primary sources.
• KPLC: Kenya's electricity imports surged by 86% in the 2023/2024 financial year, driven by power purchase agreements with Ethiopia and Uganda.
• ZESCO: Zambia's electricity imports remained relatively low, with significant imports from South Africa and China.

African Imports in the Last 10 Years: Historical Africa Trade Data

Africa Import Trends & Trade Shifts

• Intra-African Trade Growth: The implementation of the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA) in July 2024 helped to boost intra-African trade by approximately 29%, particularly in processed foods and manufacturing sectors.
• US-Africa Trade Dynamics: The African Development Bank (AfDB) revised Africa's 2025 growth forecast downward to 3.9%, citing uncertainties from new U.S. trade tariffs and retaliatory measures.
• Diversification of Trade Partners: African nations are increasingly exploring trade partnerships beyond traditional allies, focusing on intra-continental agreements and strengthening ties with emerging markets in Asia and the Middle East.

US Tariffs on African Exports (Effective April 2025)

Key Africa Trade Agreements & Tariff Structures

• African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA): Provides eligible Sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free access to the U.S. market for certain goods. However, recent U.S. tariffs have undermined its benefits, with some African officials declaring the deal "nullified."
• Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA): Aims to integrate COMESA, SADC, and EAC, covering 29 countries and over 60% of Africa's GDP. Expected to enhance intra-African trade and industrial development. 
• African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): The AfCFTA encompasses 54 African Union member states, striving to create a single continental market for goods and services, facilitating free movement of businesspersons and investments.

Economic Impacts & Strategic Responses for Africa Imports 

• Job Losses: High tariffs have led to significant job losses in textile industries across countries like Lesotho and Madagascar, with tens of thousands of jobs at risk.
• GDP Growth Slowdown: Countries heavily reliant on exports to the U.S., such as South Africa and Angola, are experiencing slowed economic growth due to reduced demand and increased tariffs.
• Shift to Alternative Markets: In response to U.S. tariffs, African nations are seeking to diversify their export markets, strengthening trade relations within the continent and with other global trade partners.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Africa's import market is dynamic and diverse, with different countries specializing in various industries. Understanding the top African buyers and imports by country can help businesses identify new opportunities and expand their presence in this growing market. As Africa continues to develop and strengthen its trade relationships, the import market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. Overall, the future looks bright for Africa's import market, with plenty of opportunities for businesses to thrive and succeed in this vibrant continent.

We hope that you liked our insightful blog report on Africa Imports & Importers data 2024-25. For more insights into the Africa trade data and African countries' import-export data with our search live data feature, visit TradeImeX. Contact us at info@tradeimex.in to get the latest global trade data and get a customized database report as per your business needs.