The three countries with the largest trade surpluses in Africa are oil producers

Key takeaways

  • Angola's $23.8 billion surplus is nearly double Algeria’s
  • The top three countries are major oil exporters
  • Oil, minerals, and natural resources drive most surpluses
  • No North African country besides Algeria makes the top 10

Angola leads Africa’s trade surplus rankings, with other oil-producing countries taking the next two top spots. Mineral wealth boosts nations like Guinea and South Africa, while smaller economies like Ghana and Zambia still maintain positive balances. The rankings highlight how Africa’s trade surpluses rely heavily on natural resources.

Source:

World Bank

Period:

2023
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Cocoa accounted for 4.6% of Nigeria’s 2024 exports, making it the country’s second-largest export after oil
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