Top 10 African destinations for U.S. exports in 2024 revealed

Business Insider

2 hours ago

The United States has expanded its commercial presence across Africa, with recent trade data revealing the top ten African nations importing the largest volumes of U.S. goods in 2024.
The United States expanded its commercial engagement across Africa in 2024, bolstered by significant growth in exports.
Top African importers of U.S. goods in 2024, including Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria, showcased diverse economic connections.
Overall, U.S.-Africa trade trends align with Africa's developmental priorities, indicating potential for further strengthening under the AfCFTA.
These figures showcase a diverse range of economies, from resource-rich powerhouses to rapidly growing consumer markets, reflecting evolving U.S. export patterns and strengthening economic ties between the U.S. and the African continent.
According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the International Trade Administration's Global Market Finder, several African countries each imported billions of dollars' worth of American goods in 2024.
U.S. exports to Africa during this period were predominantly concentrated in key sectors such as machinery and mechanical appliances, vehicles and automotive parts, as well as aircraft and aerospace equipment, among others
An overview of U.S. goods exported to Africa in 2024
In 2024, U.S. exports to Africa reflected a growing trade relationship shaped by developmental and commercial interests.
Data from the U.S. Census Bureau and International Trade Administration shows that top exports included industrial machinery, vehicles, agriculture products, and medical equipment.
Machinery led U.S. exports to Africa, followed closely by vehicles and automotive parts, driven by growing demand across various markets.
The aerospace sector also played a significant role, while agricultural exports—including wheat, soybeans, and poultry—addressed food security needs throughout many African regions.
Other major exports encompassed healthcare products, particularly pharmaceuticals and medical devices; fertilizers and industrial chemicals; electrical equipment supporting power and digital infrastructure; as well as consumer goods such as used clothing.
Overall, the structure of U.S. exports to Africa in 2024 highlights a growing alignment with Africa's development goals, with trade expected to expand further under the AfCFTA.
According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the International Trade Administration's Global Market Finder, the following list presents the top 10 African countries that received the most U.S. exports in 2024
Rank Country U.S. Export Value (2024)
1 Egypt $6.89 billion
2 South Africa $5.8 billion
3 Morocco $5.2 billion
4 Nigeria $4.1 billion
5 Ethiopia $1.01 billion
6 Algeria $1.01 billion
7 Ghana $967 million
8 Kenya $782 million
9 Angola $682 million
10 Côte d'Ivoire $596 million
In 2024, Egypt, South Africa, Morocco, Nigeria, and Ethiopia were the top five African destinations for U.S. exports, reflecting deepening trade ties across key sectors.
Egypt led with nearly $6.9 billion in imports, driven by strong demand for machinery, aircraft, agriculture, and medical equipment.
South Africa followed with $5.8 billion, supported by its industrial base and appetite for vehicles, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
Morocco imported $5.2 billion in U.S. goods, bolstered by trade in agriculture, aerospace, and renewable energy.
Nigeria brought in $4.1 billion, primarily petroleum machinery, food products, and pharmaceuticals. Ethiopia, with $1 billion in imports, focused on aviation and industrial equipment despite recent economic challenges.