By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, Sept. 25, GNA – Ghana’s export earnings rose to US$22.4 billion by August 2026, driven largely by strong gold exports, according to the latest Summary of Macroeconomic and Financial Data released by the Bank of Ghana on Thursday.
The data showed that total exports increased from US$17.97 billion recorded in August 2025 to US$22.41 billion in August 2026, reflecting a significant improvement in the country’s external sector performance.
Gold remained Ghana’s leading export earner, generating US$14.86 billion as of August 2026, compared with US$11.18 billion during the corresponding period in 2025.
The precious mineral accounted for approximately two-thirds of the country’s total export earnings, underscoring its continued importance to foreign exchange generation and economic stability.
Cocoa exports also recorded growth, rising from US$2.47 billion in August 2025 to US$2.76 billion in August 2026, while oil exports increased from US$1.83 billion to US$2.42 billion over the same period.
Other exports contributed US$2.39 billion to total earnings in August 2026, up from US$2.46 billion in August 2025.
The growth in exports helped strengthen Ghana’s trade position, with the country’s trade surplus expanding from US$6.69 billion in August 2025 to US$8.86 billion by August 2026.
Imports also increased during the period, rising from US$11.24 billion to US$13.55 billion.
However, export growth outpaced import growth, resulting in the wider trade surplus.
The robust export earnings also contributed to the country’s reserve position. Gross International Reserves stood at more than US$12 billion as of September 2026.
The latest figures highlight the growing role of the extractive sector in supporting economic activity and foreign exchange inflows, even as policymakers seek to diversify the country’s export base and increase value addition in agriculture and industry.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe
25 Sept. 2026
Reporter: Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Email: [email protected]