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Somalia Major Exports

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Somalia, located on the Horn of Africa, has a diverse economy with agriculture, livestock, and fisheries forming the backbone of its export sector. The country’s export value is relatively small compared to global trade volumes, but it plays a crucial role in the region’s economy. Despite challenges such as political instability and infrastructure limitations, Somalia’s export market has shown resilience, especially in sectors like livestock and agricultural products. As of recent data, Somalia’s total export value is estimated to be around $1.4 billion annually.

1. Livestock

Overview of Livestock Exports

Livestock is by far Somalia’s largest export category, with the country being one of the top exporters of camels, cattle, goats, and sheep in Africa. The livestock sector supports a significant portion of Somalia’s rural population, and Somalia’s export of live animals is an important source of foreign exchange. In addition to live animals, Somalia exports meat, hides, and skins, which are essential products in global markets.

  • Livestock Export Value: Livestock and related products contribute approximately $800 million annually to Somalia’s export revenues.
  • Key Products: Live animals (camels, cattle, goats, and sheep), goat meat, beef, and leather.

Key Markets for Livestock Exports

  • Middle East: The majority of Somalia’s livestock exports are directed towards the Middle East, particularly to countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Oman.
  • Yemen: Yemen is a key destination for Somali livestock, particularly camels and goats.
  • Other African Nations: Regional markets within East Africa also import livestock, including neighboring countries like Kenya and Ethiopia.

2. Fish and Seafood

Overview of Fish and Seafood Exports

Somalia has a vast coastline along the Indian Ocean, providing rich marine resources. Fishing is an essential part of the economy, with seafood products such as tuna, shrimp, and lobster being exported. The country is home to a variety of fish species, and its waters offer valuable resources for both local consumption and export.

  • Fish and Seafood Export Value: Fish and seafood products contribute approximately $100 million annually to Somalia’s export sector.
  • Key Products: Tuna, shrimp, lobster, and other fish varieties.

Key Markets for Fish and Seafood Exports

  • Asia: Countries in Asia, particularly China and Japan, are significant markets for Somali seafood.
  • Middle East: Seafood exports to the Middle East, especially to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, have been growing in recent years.
  • European Union: The EU is another growing market for Somali seafood, especially fish and shrimp.

3. Bananas

Overview of Banana Exports

Bananas are another key export for Somalia, with the country’s fertile lands and favorable climate making it ideal for banana cultivation. Somalia was once known for its significant banana production, although this industry faced setbacks due to civil unrest in the 1990s. In recent years, the banana sector has shown signs of recovery, and Somalia has re-established its position as an exporter of bananas, particularly to the Middle East and East Africa.

  • Banana Export Value: Bananas contribute around $50 million annually to Somalia’s export revenue.
  • Key Products: Fresh bananas, primarily cultivated in the regions of Lower Shebelle and Middle Shebelle.

Key Markets for Banana Exports

  • Middle East: The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf countries are major consumers of Somali bananas.
  • East Africa: Neighboring countries such as Kenya and Ethiopia also import Somali bananas.
  • Asia: The Asian market, especially countries like India and Pakistan, represents a growing opportunity for Somali banana exports.

4. Charcoal

Overview of Charcoal Exports

Charcoal production has been a significant part of Somalia’s informal economy, with the country’s dry climate making it ideal for producing charcoal. It is produced primarily from local tree species and exported in large quantities, though the industry has faced criticism for its environmental impact, leading to some international calls for a ban on charcoal exports.

  • Charcoal Export Value: Charcoal exports contribute approximately $50 million to Somalia’s annual export revenue.
  • Key Products: Charcoal, primarily produced from Acacia and other local trees.

Key Markets for Charcoal Exports

  • Middle East: The primary market for Somali charcoal is the Middle East, especially to countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Yemen.
  • Horn of Africa: Somalia also exports charcoal to neighboring countries in the Horn of Africa, including Kenya and Ethiopia.

5. Hides and Skins

Overview of Hides and Skins Exports

Somalia’s livestock sector also contributes to the export of hides and skins. Leather products, including raw and tanned hides, are a traditional export, with demand coming from the garment, fashion, and furniture industries. The leather processing industry in Somalia has been developing, although challenges related to infrastructure and investment have limited its growth.

  • Hides and Skins Export Value: Hides and skins contribute around $40 million annually to Somalia’s exports.
  • Key Products: Cowhide, goat skin, and camel leather.

Key Markets for Hides and Skins Exports

  • China: China is a major importer of Somali hides and skins, particularly for the leather manufacturing industry.
  • European Union: The EU also imports Somali hides and skins, especially from the leather processing sectors in Italy and Spain.
  • Turkey: Turkey, with its large textile and leather industry, is another key destination for Somali hides.

6. Gum Arabic

Overview of Gum Arabic Exports

Gum Arabic is another important export from Somalia, which has historically been a major producer of this commodity. The gum is harvested from the acacia tree, and it is used in a wide range of industries, from food and beverages to pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Somalia’s gum arabic is known for its high quality, making it valuable in international markets.

  • Gum Arabic Export Value: Exports of gum arabic contribute approximately $20 million annually to Somalia’s export economy.
  • Key Products: Gum arabic, primarily harvested from the Acacia senegal tree.

Key Markets for Gum Arabic Exports

  • United States: The U.S. is a significant importer of Somali gum arabic, used in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries.
  • Europe: European countries, especially in the food and cosmetic industries, are key markets for Somali gum arabic.
  • Middle East: The Middle East also imports gum arabic for use in local food production.

7. Frankincense and Myrrh

Overview of Frankincense and Myrrh Exports

Somalia is one of the leading producers of frankincense and myrrh, aromatic resins that are highly prized for use in perfumes, incense, and traditional medicine. These resins are harvested from trees in the arid regions of the country and are exported in raw or processed forms.

  • Frankincense and Myrrh Export Value: Frankincense and myrrh exports contribute around $10 million annually to the country’s export economy.
  • Key Products: Raw frankincense, myrrh, and essential oils.

Key Markets for Frankincense and Myrrh Exports

  • Europe: European markets, particularly in the perfume and aromatherapy sectors, are significant consumers of Somali frankincense and myrrh.
  • Middle East: The Middle East has a long-standing tradition of using frankincense and myrrh in religious and cultural practices, and Somali products are highly valued in the region.
  • United States: The U.S. imports frankincense and myrrh, particularly for the wellness and essential oils industries.

8. Khat

Overview of Khat Exports

Khat, a stimulant plant that is chewed for its psychoactive effects, is another significant export from Somalia. It is primarily consumed in the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Khat is grown widely in Somalia and exported to neighboring countries and the Middle East.

  • Khat Export Value: Khat contributes approximately $30 million annually to Somalia’s exports.
  • Key Products: Fresh khat leaves.

Key Markets for Khat Exports

  • Middle East: Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and the UAE are significant markets for Somali khat.
  • East Africa: Neighboring countries, including Ethiopia and Kenya, also import khat for local consumption.

Top Products Exported by Somalia

Market Value: 253 (millions) – Last Updated: June, 2024

Top Products Exported by Somalia

Rank Product Trade Value (thousands) Share (%) Growth (% 5yr)
1 Sheep & Goats 36,930 14.62 215.43
2 Cows 17,062 6.75 223.11
3 Wood Charcoal 11,074 4.38 65.39
4 Frozen Fish 5,108 2.02 984.28
5 Sheep Skins 3,504 1.39 205.33
6 Raw Hides & Skins 2,419 0.96 -2.57
7 Molluscs 2,410 0.95 73.22
8 Cane Sugar 2,347 0.93 -43.38
9 Natural Gums 1,574 0.62 54.32
10 Parts For Fork Lifts, Bulldozers & Graders 1,105 0.44 0.00
11 Oil Seeds & Oleaginous Fruits 993 0.39 1,310.57
12 Binders For Found Molds 587 0.23 1,075.85
13 Cow & Horse Hides 546 0.22 882.04
14 Sheep Skins – No Wool 427 0.17 -28.55
15 Goat Leather – No Hair 415 0.16 -62.87
16 Citrus Fruit 234 0.09 250.15
17 Seamless Iron & Steel Tubes & Pipes 223 0.09 16.77
18 Refrigerators & Freezers 202 0.08 236.49
19 Cow &Horse Hides -No Hair 163 0.06 83.75
20 Electronic Integrated Circuits 157 0.06 0.00
21 Misc Meat & Edible Offal 155 0.06 -65.55
22 Fish Fillets 142 0.06 127.42
23 Containers of Transport 141 0.06 12,358.41
24 Shell Fish 138 0.05 297.52
25 Paint & Varnish 89 0.04 544.51
26 Food & Drink Preparation Machines 83 0.03 0.00
27 Cheese & Curd 80 0.03 7.70
28 Plastic Household Articles 73 0.03 0.00
29 Telephone, Fax & Switching Apparatus 65 0.03 -77.60
30 Butter 65 0.03 490.46
31 Computers, Printers & Storage Units 64 0.03 -37.29
32 Taps, Cocks & Valves 62 0.02 5,894.24
33 Coral & Shell 56 0.02 0.00
34 Instruments for Measure & Check Flow 41 0.02 0.00
35 Essent Oils Resinoid 41 0.02 -61.94
36 Tomatoes 39 0.02 0.00
37 Agricultural Machinery For Soil 39 0.02 0.00
38 Natural Vegetable Fats & Oils 38 0.02 381.34
39 Ferrous Waste & Scrap 37 0.01 16.66
40 Handbags, Wallets & Travel Goods 37 0.01 0.00
41 Articles of Plastics 34 0.01 276.19
42 Raw Animal Fats 34 0.01 0.00
43 Polymers of Styrene 34 0.01 0.00
44 Fuel Wood in Logs 29 0.01 1,230.47
45 Fruit & Vegetable Juice 28 0.01 2,936.21
46 Dried Fish 27 0.01 -37.67
47 Trucks 27 0.01 0.00
48 Knitted T-Shirts 26 0.01 0.00
49 Copper Waste & Scrap 24 0.01 0.00
50 Passenger Vehicles 23 0.01 -8.74
51 Vegetable Saps & Extracts 20 0.01 18.25
52 Organic Surface-Active Agents 18 0.01 627.21
53 Ambergris 17 0.01 -4.60
54 Plastic Containers 17 0.01 136.40
55 Computer & Office Machines Parts 16 0.01 312.95
56 Extracts of Coffee 15 0.01 0.00
57 Glazed Ceramic Flags & Paving 15 0.01 -76.10
58 Acyclic Alcohols 15 0.01 0.00
59 Aluminum Waste & Scrap 13 0.01 -63.97
60 Buckwheat 12 0.00 0.00
61 Matches 10 0.00 453.39
62 Instruments For Physical or Chemical Analysis 10 0.00 420.04
63 Mineral Wools 10 0.00 0.00
64 Bananas 10 0.00 0.00
65 Fresh Vegetables 10 0.00 1,341.39
66 Glaziers Putty & Caulking 8 0.00 -71.32
67 Ginger, Thyme & Spices 6 0.00 67.27
68 Knitted Sweaters 6 0.00 491.97
69 TV Receivers 6 0.00 0.00
70 Seamed Hollow Tubes & Pipes 6 0.00 -8.60
71 Personal Toilet Preparations 6 0.00 6.91
72 Parts For Electric Equipment 5 0.00 463.73
73 Knives 5 0.00 -88.53
74 Plants For Pharmacy 4 0.00 -30.68
75 Cut Flowers & Buds 4 0.00 0.00
76 Tableware & Kitchenware 4 0.00 341.69
77 Woven Cotton Fabrics – < 85% > 200G/M2 4 0.00 0.00
78 Electromech Domestic Appliances 4 0.00 0.00
79 Leather Footwear 3 0.00 0.00
80 Dried Fruit 3 0.00 326.43
81 Switches, Relays & Fuses < 1000 Volts 3 0.00 -83.28
82 Grapes 2 0.00 0.00
83 Non-Knit Womens & Girls Suits 2 0.00 0.00
84 Cycle Parts & Assessories 2 0.00 0.00
85 Pictures & Photos 2 0.00 0.00
86 Reception Apparatus For Radiotelephony 2 0.00 -50.65
87 Bells & Ornaments 2 0.00 0.00
88 Mechanical Machinery & Parts 2 0.00 0.00
89 Cucumbers & Gherkins 2 0.00 116.33
90 Non-Knit Mens & Boys Shirts 2 0.00 0.00
91 Dates 2 0.00 -61.35
92 Acrylic Polymers 2 0.00 216.82
93 Cloves 2 0.00 0.00
94 Knitted Womens & Girls Suits 2 0.00 0.00
95 Piston Engines 1 0.00 0.00
96 Aircraft Parts 1 0.00 0.00
97 Medical, Dental & Vet Instruments 1 0.00 -96.80
98 Transister & Semiconductor Devices 1 0.00 0.00
99 Video Recording Equipment 1 0.00 -46.71
100 Engines & Motors 1 0.00 0.00
101 Textile Footwear 1 0.00 0.00
102 Precious & Semiprecious Stones 1 0.00 0.00
103 Live Plants 1 0.00 -91.55
104 Honey 1 0.00 0.00
105 Wood, Continuously Shaped (Tongued or Grooved 1 0.00 0.00
106 Non Crude Oil 1 0.00 -86.40
107 Alloy Steel Bars 1 0.00 -70.58
108 Coated Paper 1 0.00 -96.19
109 Organic Composite Solvents & Thinners 1 0.00 0.00
110 Printed Circuits 1 0.00 -66.68
111 Electric Ignition Equipment 1 0.00 0.00
112 Imitation Jewelry 1 0.00 -37.71
113 Uncombed Wool 1 0.00 -99.49
114 Electric Motors & Generators 1 0.00 -99.62
115 Newspapers 1 0.00 -80.74
116 Records & Tapes 1 0.00 0.00
117 Mattress Supports 1 0.00 0.00
118 Sanitary & Toiletry Paper 0 0.00 -94.43
119 Photocopy Apparatus 0 0.00 0.00
120 Structures & Parts of Iron or Steel 0 0.00 -98.85
121 Ceramic Articles 0 0.00 0.00
122 Edible Offal 0 0.00 0.00
123 Weighing Machines 0 0.00 0.00
124 Fresh Fish 0 0.00 0.00
125 Uncoated Paper 0 0.00 -96.07
126 Books 0 0.00 -99.39
127 Medicines in Doses 0 0.00 -99.67
128 Electric Water Heaters 0 0.00 -84.18
129 Puzzles, Models & Toys 0 0.00 0.00
130 Peanuts 0 0.00 0.00
131 Electrical Resistors 0 0.00 0.00
132 Dishwashing & Packaging Machines 0 0.00 0.00
133 Files, Pliers & Shears 0 0.00 0.00
134 Lamps & Lighting Fittings 0 0.00 -99.10
135 Seeds: Anise Badian, Fennel, Coriander 0 0.00 0.00
136 Air Conditioners 0 0.00 0.00
137 Festive & Entertainment Art 0 0.00 0.00
138 Hand Tools 0 0.00 -83.45
139 Ball & Roller Bearings & Parts 0 0.00 -99.95
140 Electric Lasers 0 0.00 0.00
141 Glass Mirrors 0 0.00 0.00
142 Shawls & Scarves 0 0.00 -89.89
143 Wine 0 0.00 0.00
144 Synthetic Coloring Matter 0 0.00 0.00
145 Glassware For Table 0 0.00 -85.33
146 Seats & Parts 0 0.00 -99.79
147 Screws, Bolts & Nuts 0 0.00 0.00
148 Cigars & Cigarettes 0 0.00 0.00
149 Automatic Regulating & Control Instruments 0 0.00 0.00
150 Hand-Operated Spanners & Wrenches 0 0.00 0.00
151 Television, Radio & Assessory Parts 0 0.00 0.00
152 Motor Vehicle Parts 0 0.00 -98.79
153 Physical Exercise Equipment 0 0.00 0.00
154 Corn 0 0.00 0.00
155 Insulated Wire & Cable 0 0.00 0.00
156 Articles of Vulcanized Rubber 0 0.00 0.00
157 Non-Knit Track Suits 0 0.00 0.00
158 Office Paper 0 0.00 0.00
159 Electric Capacitors 0 0.00 0.00
160 Pumps For Liquids 0 0.00 -99.99
161 Plastic Sheets, Film & Plates 0 0.00 -99.70
162 Beauty & Make-up Perparations 0 0.00 -99.89
163 Drawing Instruments 0 0.00 0.00
164 Plastic Self-Adhesive Plates 0 0.00 0.00

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