Guinea-Bissau Major Exports
Guinea-Bissau is a small country located in West Africa, with an economy that is heavily reliant on agriculture and natural resources. The country’s export sector is characterized by its focus on primary products such as cashew nuts, fish, and agricultural commodities. While the economy faces challenges such as political instability and underdeveloped infrastructure, Guinea-Bissau has managed to establish itself as a key player in the global markets for several essential commodities.
Major Export Categories
1. Cashew Nuts
Cashew nuts are Guinea-Bissau’s most significant export and the largest contributor to its export revenues. The country is one of the world’s top producers of cashews, with vast areas of farmland dedicated to cultivating the crop. Cashew nuts are exported in both raw and processed forms, although a larger portion is exported in its raw form, especially to markets in India, Vietnam, and other parts of Asia.
- Trade Value: Cashew nuts account for approximately $170 million in annual export value, making up over 50% of Guinea-Bissau’s total exports.
- Major export destinations include India, Vietnam, and Europe.
Key Products:
- Raw Cashew Nuts: The primary form of export is raw cashews, which are processed into various forms, including roasted and salted, by importing countries.
- Processed Cashew Products: Although less common, some processed cashew products, including cashew butter and cashew-based snacks, are exported to more developed markets.
2. Fish and Seafood
Guinea-Bissau has a large and productive fishing industry, taking advantage of its extensive coastline and rich marine resources. Fish, particularly pelagic species like tuna, sardines, and mackerel, form a significant portion of the country’s exports. The fishing industry is also an important source of employment and food security for the local population.
- Trade Value: Fish exports contribute approximately $60 million annually to Guinea-Bissau’s export economy.
- Major export markets include the European Union, the United States, and neighboring West African countries.
Key Products:
- Frozen Fish: The country exports large quantities of frozen fish, particularly tuna, to markets in Europe and Asia.
- Fishmeal: Fishmeal, used primarily in animal feed and aquaculture, is another significant export, though it makes up a smaller portion of total fish exports.
3. Timber and Wood Products
Guinea-Bissau is home to tropical rainforests that provide a rich source of timber. The country’s forestry sector is an important part of the economy, though it remains underdeveloped and often faces challenges related to illegal logging and sustainability concerns. The export of wood and wood products, including logs, sawn timber, and plywood, contributes to the economy.
- Trade Value: Timber and wood products contribute around $30 million annually to Guinea-Bissau’s total exports.
- Major export destinations include Portugal, China, and other European markets.
Key Products:
- Logs: The export of raw timber logs is the primary form of timber export, with large quantities shipped to markets in Europe and Asia.
- Sawn Timber: Processed wood products, including sawn timber and plywood, are also exported, though at a lower volume compared to raw logs.
4. Groundnuts (Peanuts)
Groundnuts, also known as peanuts, are an important agricultural product in Guinea-Bissau, with the country producing significant quantities for export. While peanuts are used domestically for food and oil production, a large portion is exported to international markets. Groundnut exports contribute to the livelihoods of farmers and provide essential income for the rural population.
- Trade Value: Groundnuts account for around $25 million annually in export value.
- Major export markets include India, China, and other Asian countries.
Key Products:
- Raw Groundnuts: The majority of Guinea-Bissau’s groundnut exports are in raw form, typically shipped to Asian markets where they are processed.
- Groundnut Oil: A small but growing segment of the export market involves groundnut oil, which is used for cooking and industrial purposes.
5. Cotton
Cotton is another important agricultural export for Guinea-Bissau, though it plays a smaller role in the economy compared to cashews or fish. The country has favorable conditions for cotton cultivation, and cotton farming has been promoted as part of efforts to diversify the economy. Cotton is primarily grown in rural areas, where it provides a source of income for farmers.
- Trade Value: Cotton exports contribute around $15 million annually to Guinea-Bissau’s export trade.
- Major export markets include the European Union and China.
Key Products:
- Raw Cotton: Guinea-Bissau mainly exports raw cotton, which is processed in other countries into textiles and garments.
- Cotton Seeds: In addition to raw cotton, cotton seeds are also exported, primarily for use in oil production and animal feed.
6. Gold
Gold mining has become an increasingly important sector for Guinea-Bissau’s economy. The country is known to have significant gold reserves, although mining operations are relatively small and artisanal in nature. Despite challenges in infrastructure and governance, gold exports have seen growth in recent years as foreign investment and mining activity increase.
- Trade Value: Gold exports contribute approximately $10 million annually, with the potential for future growth as mining operations expand.
- Major export markets for Guinea-Bissau’s gold include neighboring countries and international markets.
Key Products:
- Gold Bars: The primary export of gold from Guinea-Bissau is in the form of gold bars, often produced by artisanal miners.
- Gold Nuggets: Smaller amounts of raw gold, in the form of nuggets or dust, are also exported.
7. Other Agricultural Products
In addition to cashews, groundnuts, and cotton, Guinea-Bissau exports several other agricultural products, including tropical fruits, rice, and palm oil. However, these products represent a smaller share of the export economy compared to the major export categories mentioned above.
- Trade Value: Other agricultural exports contribute around $20 million annually.
- Major export markets include neighboring West African countries and the European Union.
Key Products:
- Tropical Fruits: Fruits such as bananas, mangoes, and pineapples are exported, although in limited quantities.
- Rice and Palm Oil: Guinea-Bissau produces rice and palm oil for export, though it is primarily a net importer of rice.
8. Other Minerals and Natural Resources
Guinea-Bissau is rich in various natural resources beyond gold, including bauxite, limestone, and phosphates. While the country has not yet fully exploited these resources for export, they represent potential future revenue streams as mining and extraction industries develop.
- Trade Value: Exports of other minerals and natural resources contribute around $5 million annually.
- Major export markets include China and other Asian countries.
Key Products:
- Bauxite: Guinea-Bissau has significant bauxite reserves, which are exported in raw form.
- Limestone and Phosphates: The export of limestone and phosphates is still limited but growing, with applications in construction and agriculture.
Guinea-Bissau’s export economy is primarily based on agricultural products such as cashews, fish, and groundnuts. The country also relies on its natural resources, including timber and gold, to drive export revenues. While the economy faces challenges in terms of infrastructure and political stability, Guinea-Bissau has been focusing on diversifying its exports and attracting investment in sectors like mining and agriculture. With a growing emphasis on sustainable practices and resource management, the country’s export sector is poised for gradual development.
Top Products Exported by Guinea-Bissau
Market Value: 21 (millions) – Last Updated: June, 2024
| Rank | Product | Trade Value (thousands) | Share (%) | Growth (% 5yr) |
| 1 | Frozen Fish | 3,313 | 15.77 | 15.77 |
| 2 | Molluscs | 1,141 | 5.43 | -32.11 |
| 3 | Wood Sawn > 6 mm | 351 | 1.67 | 110.13 |
| 4 | Ferrous Waste & Scrap | 338 | 1.61 | 612.75 |
| 5 | Coconuts | 329 | 1.57 | -99.30 |
| 6 | Aircraft Engines | 268 | 1.27 | 0.00 |
| 7 | Shell Fish | 260 | 1.24 | -57.55 |
| 8 | Natural Rubber | 166 | 0.79 | 0.00 |
| 9 | Passenger Vehicles | 158 | 0.75 | 163.29 |
| 10 | Fresh Vegetables | 111 | 0.53 | 1,573.26 |
| 11 | Tea | 99 | 0.47 | 0.00 |
| 12 | Survey Instruments | 94 | 0.45 | 0.00 |
| 13 | Refrigerators & Freezers | 92 | 0.44 | 0.00 |
| 14 | Iron & Steel > 600 mm Wide – Clad | 76 | 0.36 | 0.00 |
| 15 | Coffee | 55 | 0.26 | 0.00 |
| 16 | Copper Waste & Scrap | 54 | 0.26 | 0.00 |
| 17 | New Pneumatic Tires | 50 | 0.24 | 0.00 |
| 18 | Cocoa | 38 | 0.18 | 0.00 |
| 19 | Electronic Integrated Circuits | 29 | 0.14 | 245.59 |
| 20 | Dates | 29 | 0.14 | 23.12 |
| 21 | Knotted Net of Twine | 26 | 0.12 | 0.00 |
| 22 | Computers, Printers & Storage Units | 25 | 0.12 | -91.92 |
| 23 | Yachts & Other Pleasure Vessels | 20 | 0.10 | 0.00 |
| 24 | Tomatoes Prepared & Preserved | 17 | 0.08 | 0.00 |
| 25 | Palm Oil | 14 | 0.07 | 221.18 |
| 26 | Plastic Household Articles | 12 | 0.05 | 0.00 |
| 27 | Hardware For Furniture, Doors & Windows | 11 | 0.05 | 0.00 |
| 28 | Mechanical Machinery & Parts | 10 | 0.05 | 0.00 |
| 29 | Sauces & Condiments | 9 | 0.04 | 0.00 |
| 30 | Natural Vegetable Fats & Oils | 7 | 0.04 | 0.00 |
| 31 | Furniture & Parts | 6 | 0.03 | 191.19 |
| 32 | Fruit & Vegetable Juice | 5 | 0.03 | 216.42 |
| 33 | Motorcycles | 5 | 0.02 | 0.00 |
| 34 | Insecticides | 4 | 0.02 | 0.00 |
| 35 | Household Art & Parts | 4 | 0.02 | 0.00 |
| 36 | Fresh Fruit | 4 | 0.02 | 105.40 |
| 37 | Concentrated Milk & Cream | 3 | 0.02 | -97.24 |
| 38 | Telephone, Fax & Switching Apparatus | 3 | 0.02 | 37.60 |
| 39 | Motor Vehicle Parts | 3 | 0.01 | -75.11 |
| 40 | Seats & Parts | 3 | 0.01 | 0.00 |
| 41 | Frozen Vegetables | 2 | 0.01 | 0.00 |
| 42 | Hair Preparations | 2 | 0.01 | 0.00 |
| 43 | Specialized Electrical Machinery & Parts | 2 | 0.01 | 0.00 |
| 44 | Citrus Fruit | 2 | 0.01 | 0.00 |
| 45 | Pumps For Liquids | 2 | 0.01 | 0.00 |
| 46 | Television, Radio & Assessory Parts | 1 | 0.01 | 0.00 |
| 47 | Non-Knit Womens & Girls Suits | 1 | 0.01 | -5.00 |
| 48 | Automatic Regulating & Control Instruments | 1 | 0.01 | -98.72 |
| 49 | Checks & Stamps | 1 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 50 | Switches, Relays & Fuses < 1000 Volts | 1 | 0.00 | 2.76 |
| 51 | Live Plants | 1 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 52 | Filters & Centrifuges | 1 | 0.00 | 28.91 |
| 53 | Transister & Semiconductor Devices | 1 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 54 | Fresh Fish | 1 | 0.00 | -14.33 |
| 55 | Percussion Instruments | 1 | 0.00 | -50.52 |
| 56 | Physical Exercise Equipment | 1 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 57 | Articles of Plastics | 0 | 0.00 | -91.77 |
| 58 | Non-Knit Womens & Girls Blouses | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 59 | Plastic Containers | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 60 | Pulley Tackle & Hoists | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 61 | Instruments for Measure & Check Flow | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 62 | Electric Water Heaters | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 63 | Non-Knit Mens & Boys Shirts | 0 | 0.00 | -95.30 |
| 64 | Engine Parts | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 65 | Leather Footwear | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 66 | Photocopy Apparatus | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 67 | Hand Tools | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 68 | Peanuts | 0 | 0.00 | -66.91 |
| 69 | Pictures & Photos | 0 | 0.00 | -99.64 |
| 70 | Parts For Fork Lifts, Bulldozers & Graders | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 71 | Computer & Office Machines Parts | 0 | 0.00 | -98.71 |
| 72 | Electrical Resistors | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 73 | Knives & Blades For Machines & Appliances | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 74 | Safety Glass | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 75 | Transmission Shafts, Bearings & Parts | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 76 | Electric Light Equipment | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 77 | Articles of Wood | 0 | 0.00 | -95.32 |
| 78 | Flour & Meal | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 79 | Springs & Leaves For Springs | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 80 | Screws, Bolts & Nuts | 0 | 0.00 | -99.25 |
| 81 | Non Sweetened Waters | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 82 | Books | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| 83 | Ball & Roller Bearings & Parts | 0 | 0.00 | 0.00 |
