Top Potato Exporting Countries in Africa (2023) with Export Values

Juma Msafiri

Africa’s potato export market is steadily growing, driven by investments in agricultural infrastructure, improved farming techniques, and strategic partnerships. Among African nations, Egypt stands out as a leader in potato exports, leveraging its favorable climate, advanced irrigation systems, and access to international markets. Other countries, such as South Africa and Morocco, are also making strides, contributing significantly to the continent’s presence in the global potato trade.

This article combines data from trusted sources, including international trade reports, market analysis platforms, and regional export statistics. Notably, Trendeconomy, WM Strategy, and local agricultural reports provide comprehensive insights into export values and market trends. These sources highlight the growing competitiveness of African exporters in meeting global demand for fresh and processed potatoes.

By focusing on key data, this article offers an overview of Africa’s top potato-exporting nations and their contributions to the continent’s economic development. Below is a detailed list of the leading exporters, along with their respective export values for 2023.

Top Potato Exporting Countries in Africa (2023) with Export Values

1. Egypt: $396 million
   • Accounts for 6.56% of global potato exports.
   • Main export markets: Europe, Middle East, and Asia.
2. South Africa: ~$85 million (estimated)
   • Contributes approximately 15% of Africa’s total potato exports.
   • Main export markets: Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and international markets.
3. Morocco: ~$30 million
   • Exports to Europe and Africa.
4. Tunisia: ~$20 million
   • Focuses on North African regional trade and Mediterranean markets.
5. Kenya: ~$15 million
   • Primarily exports regionally in East Africa.
6. Ethiopia: ~$12 million
   • Focuses on exports to neighboring countries and the Middle East.
7. Rwanda: ~$10 million
   • Increasing exports within East and Central Africa.
8. Uganda: ~$8 million
   • Exports small quantities to regional neighbors.
9. Tanzania: ~$7 million
   • Exports regionally, particularly to East Africa.
10. Algeria: ~$5 million
    • Limited exports, mainly within North Africa.
11. Zambia: ~$4 million
    • Emerging exporter in Southern Africa.
12. Nigeria: ~$3 million
    • Despite being the largest producer, exports are minimal due to high domestic consumption.
13. Zimbabwe: ~$3 million
    • Exports small quantities regionally.
14. Malawi: ~$2.5 million
    • Modest regional exports.
15. Mozambique: ~$2 million
    • Exports surplus to neighboring countries.
16. Sudan: ~$1.5 million
    • Limited exports, mostly within East Africa.
17. Botswana: ~$1.2 million
    • Developing export capacity in Southern Africa.
18. Burundi: ~$1 million
    • Small-scale regional exports.
19. Eswatini (Swaziland): ~$1 million
    • Limited export contributions.
20. Ghana: ~$0.8 million
    • Emerging exporter within West Africa.

Data Sources:

1. Trendeconomy – Offers detailed global and regional export data.
2. WM Strategy – Provides market research reports on agricultural exports.
3. African Agricultural Reports – Regional insights into crop production and trade.