Comoros Major Exports
Comoros, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, has a limited yet growing export economy. Despite its small size, the country has established itself as a significant exporter of certain agricultural products, as well as some mineral resources. Its geographic location, combined with a relatively low population, means that Comoros has concentrated its economic efforts on a few key industries, including agriculture, fishing, and the production of essential oils.
Agricultural Products
Agriculture is the backbone of Comoros’ export economy. The country’s tropical climate and fertile volcanic soil allow it to produce a variety of crops, with exports primarily focused on cash crops and fruits. The island’s agricultural exports play a crucial role in both domestic employment and foreign exchange earnings.
Export Value of Agricultural Products
- In 2022, agricultural exports were valued at approximately $130 million.
- Agricultural products account for nearly 60% of the total value of Comoros’ exports.
- Key markets for agricultural goods include France, the UAE, and other Middle Eastern and African countries.
The key agricultural exports from Comoros include vanilla, cloves, and ylang-ylang flowers, which have established the country as an important supplier of these high-value commodities.
Key Agricultural Exports
- Vanilla: Comoros is one of the largest exporters of vanilla in the world. Vanilla is grown on the islands and is a crucial cash crop. The country has built a reputation for producing high-quality vanilla beans, prized for their aroma and flavor.
- Cloves: Another important export, cloves are grown extensively in Comoros. The country’s clove production is highly regarded in global markets, particularly in Asia and Europe.
- Ylang-Ylang: The ylang-ylang flower, used in perfume production, is one of the country’s most notable exports. Comoros is known for producing some of the finest ylang-ylang oil, which is highly sought after in the global fragrance industry.
- Coconuts and Coconut Products: The coconut tree is a vital agricultural resource in Comoros. Coconuts are used for oil production, as well as in the production of copra, which is exported primarily to Asian markets.
Fish and Seafood
Comoros has a rich marine ecosystem, and fishing is an essential part of the country’s economy. Its coastal waters, abundant with fish and seafood, provide a significant source of income through exports. The country’s fishing industry is mainly focused on tuna and other types of fish, which are highly demanded both regionally and internationally.
Export Value of Fish and Seafood
- In 2022, fish and seafood exports were valued at approximately $40 million.
- This category represents about 20% of Comoros’ total exports.
- Major export destinations for Comoros’ fish and seafood products include Japan, the European Union, and the Middle East.
Fishing in Comoros is both a traditional and commercial activity, with a growing focus on sustainable practices and improving the value of fish exports.
Key Fish and Seafood Exports
- Tuna: Tuna is the most significant fish exported from Comoros. The country’s waters are rich in tuna, and it is a critical export product to markets in Japan, the European Union, and the Middle East.
- Shrimp: Comoros also exports shrimp, particularly to regional markets in the Indian Ocean. The shrimp industry has grown due to increasing demand from international markets.
- Other Fish Varieties: Other fish varieties, including reef fish, mackerel, and grouper, also contribute to the export economy.
Essential Oils and Natural Products
Comoros is known for producing high-quality essential oils, particularly ylang-ylang oil. The country’s lush natural environment, coupled with the growing global demand for natural and organic products, has allowed the export of essential oils to become one of its key industries.
Export Value of Essential Oils
- In 2022, essential oils and natural products exports were valued at approximately $20 million.
- This category accounts for about 10% of Comoros’ total export value.
- The main export markets for essential oils are France, the United States, and other European countries.
Essential oils from Comoros are prized in the beauty, fragrance, and wellness industries. Ylang-ylang oil, in particular, is known for its distinctive aroma and is highly sought after in the perfume industry.
Key Essential Oil Exports
- Ylang-Ylang Oil: Comoros is a leading exporter of ylang-ylang oil, used extensively in perfumes and aromatherapy products.
- Eugenol Oil: Extracted from cloves, eugenol oil is another important export, used in the production of perfumes, flavorings, and medicinal products.
- Other Essential Oils: The country also exports oils from other native plants, which are used for both medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
Other Exports
While the agricultural sector and fishing are the primary sources of export income, Comoros has diversified into a few other areas that contribute to the nation’s export economy. These include minerals and handicrafts, though they make up a smaller portion of the total export value.
Export Value of Other Products
- In 2022, other products, including minerals and handicrafts, were valued at approximately $10 million.
- This category represents about 5% of the total export value.
- These products are primarily sold to regional markets within the African Union and the Arab world.
Key Other Exports
- Minerals: Comoros exports a limited amount of minerals, including basalt and other construction materials.
- Handicrafts: The country also exports traditional handicrafts, such as woven goods, baskets, and other artisanal products, to various markets, particularly in Europe and the Middle East.
Although these sectors are less developed compared to agriculture and fishing, they provide important opportunities for growth and diversification in the country’s export portfolio.
Export Challenges and Opportunities
Comoros faces several challenges in growing its export economy, including limited infrastructure, access to international markets, and the small size of its domestic industries. However, opportunities exist to expand exports by focusing on value-added products in agriculture, improving the sustainability of fishing practices, and promoting its unique essential oils to a global market that increasingly values natural and organic products.
Through strategic investments in these areas, Comoros can strengthen its export sector and contribute more significantly to its national economy.
Top Products Exported by Comoros
Market Value: 92 (millions) – Last Updated: June, 2024
| Rank | Product | Trade Value (thousands) | Share (%) | Growth (% 5yr) |
| 1 | Photocopy Apparatus | 12,337 | 13.40 | 0.00 |
| 2 | Cloves | 6,692 | 7.27 | -31.69 |
| 3 | Essent Oils Resinoid | 5,109 | 5.55 | 30.51 |
| 4 | Yachts & Other Pleasure Vessels | 4,646 | 5.05 | 0.00 |
| 5 | Vanilla Beans | 3,807 | 4.14 | -76.41 |
| 6 | Fishing Vessels | 318 | 0.35 | -98.80 |
| 7 | Odoriferous Mixtures | 86 | 0.09 | 154.05 |
| 8 | Newspapers | 56 | 0.06 | 0.00 |
| 9 | Electronic Integrated Circuits | 37 | 0.04 | 1,210.32 |
| 10 | Television, Radio & Assessory Parts | 34 | 0.04 | 3,494.91 |
| 11 | Aluminum Structures & Parts of | 34 | 0.04 | 0.00 |
| 12 | Copper Waste & Scrap | 29 | 0.03 | 0.00 |
| 13 | Aluminum Waste & Scrap | 24 | 0.03 | 1,190.56 |
| 14 | Non-Knit Mens & Boys Suits | 21 | 0.02 | 0.00 |
| 15 | Polyethers | 21 | 0.02 | 0.00 |
| 16 | Plastic Tubes | 8 | 0.01 | 670.14 |
| 17 | Ferrous Waste & Scrap | 8 | 0.01 | -74.02 |
| 18 | Transformers, Converters & Power Supplies | 6 | 0.01 | -4.92 |
| 19 | Woven Fabric of Synthetic Filament Yarn | 6 | 0.01 | -15.31 |
| 20 | Containers For Compressed & Liquid Gas | 5 | 0.01 | 170.68 |
| 21 | Books | 5 | 0.01 | 648.43 |
| 22 | Leather Footwear | 5 | 0.01 | 30.45 |
| 23 | Ginger, Thyme & Spices | 5 | 0.01 | 0.00 |
| 24 | Cel Phones, Video Recorders & Radio Transcievers | 5 | 0.00 | -98.91 |
| 25 | Non-Knit Mens & Boys Shirts | 3 | 0.00 | 289.77 |
| 26 | Hair Preparations | 3 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 27 | Telephone, Fax & Switching Apparatus | 3 | 0.00 | -75.60 |
| 28 | Binders For Found Molds | 3 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 29 | Computer & Office Machines Parts | 3 | 0.00 | 34.68 |
| 30 | Printed Circuits | 3 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 31 | Coffee | 3 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 32 | Plants For Pharmacy | 3 | 0.00 | -11.27 |
| 33 | Articles of Aluminum | 3 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 34 | Seeds | 2 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 35 | Switches, Relays & Fuses < 1000 Volts | 2 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 36 | Non Crude Oil | 2 | 0.00 | -66.28 |
| 37 | Furniture & Parts | 2 | 0.00 | -92.86 |
| 38 | Passenger Vehicles | 2 | 0.00 | -97.59 |
| 39 | Fresh Fruit | 2 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 40 | Structures & Parts of Iron or Steel | 2 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 41 | Mechanical Machinery & Parts | 1 | 0.00 | -33.40 |
| 42 | Textile Footwear | 1 | 0.00 | -96.56 |
| 43 | Cut Flowers & Buds | 1 | 0.00 | -98.94 |
| 44 | Wood Sawn > 6 mm | 1 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 45 | Knitted T-Shirts | 1 | 0.00 | -49.36 |
| 46 | Plastic Containers | 1 | 0.00 | -65.51 |
| 47 | Food Preparations | 1 | 0.00 | -63.00 |
| 48 | Water Heaters | 1 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 49 | Non-Knit Womens & Girls Suits | 1 | 0.00 | -37.19 |
| 50 | Knitted Womens & Girls Slips | 1 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 51 | Transister & Semiconductor Devices | 1 | 0.00 | -94.02 |
| 52 | Computers, Printers & Storage Units | 1 | 0.00 | -98.04 |
| 53 | Plastic & Rubber Footwear | 1 | 0.00 | -94.81 |
| 54 | Articles of Iron & Steel | 1 | 0.00 | -81.08 |
| 55 | Insecticides | 1 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 56 | Electrical Resistors | 1 | 0.00 | -84.37 |
| 57 | Motor Vehicle Parts | 1 | 0.00 | -40.40 |
| 58 | Electric Water Heaters | 1 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 59 | Screws, Bolts & Nuts | 0 | 0.00 | -28.13 |
| 60 | Wood Marquetry | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 61 | Imitation Jewelry | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 62 | Electric Generating Sets & Rotary Converters | 0 | 0.00 | -94.74 |
| 63 | Articles of Wood | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 64 | Electric Motors & Generators | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 65 | Dried Fruit | 0 | 0.00 | -89.59 |
| 66 | Tomatoes | 0 | 0.00 | -60.59 |
| 67 | Electric Capacitors | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 68 | Handbags, Wallets & Travel Goods | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 69 | Carrots | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 70 | Gaskets & Similar Joints of Metal Sheeting | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 71 | Floating Structures, Rafts & Buoys | 0 | 0.00 | -93.34 |
| 72 | Hardware For Furniture, Doors & Windows | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 73 | Automatic Regulating & Control Instruments | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 74 | Foliage | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 75 | Hand Tools | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 76 | Waterproof Footwear | 0 | 0.00 | -92.59 |
| 77 | Woven Cotton Fabrics | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 78 | Sand Blasting Machines | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 79 | Reception Apparatus For Radiotelephony | 0 | 0.00 | -99.31 |
| 80 | Calculating & Account Machines | 0 | 0.00 | -86.22 |
| 81 | X-Ray Apparatus | 0 | 0.00 | -83.99 |
| 82 | TV Receivers | 0 | 0.00 | -98.03 |
| 83 | Brooms & Mops | 0 | 0.00 | -95.50 |
| 84 | Percussion Instruments | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 85 | Knitted Mens & Boys Suits | 0 | 0.00 | -87.40 |
| 86 | Records & Tapes | 0 | 0.00 | -98.99 |
| 87 | Engine Parts | 0 | 0.00 | -99.84 |
| 88 | Parts for Hats & Headgear | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 89 | Transmission Shafts, Bearings & Parts | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 90 | Felt Garments | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 91 | Made-Up Articles of Textile Materials | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 92 | Air & Vacuum Pumps | 0 | 0.00 | -99.95 |
| 93 | Padlocks | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 94 | Articles of Vulcanized Rubber | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 95 | Perfumes & Toilet Waters | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 96 | Harvest Machines | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 97 | Alcoholic Beverages | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 98 | Tools For Working in the Hand | 0 | 0.00 | -99.56 |
| 99 | Survey Instruments | 0 | 0.00 | -99.97 |
| 100 | Frozen Fruit & Nuts | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 101 | Pepper | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 102 | Office Paper | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 103 | Non-Knit Womens & Girls Blouses | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 104 | Soap | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 105 | Paper Labels | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 106 | Non-Knit Mens & Boys Undershirts | 0 | 0.00 | -99.58 |
| 107 | Interchange Hand & Machine Tools | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 108 | Tanks – < 300 Liter | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 109 | Worn Clothing | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 110 | Pictures & Photos | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |