When people think of Ghanaian exports, cocoa often comes to mind. For decades, cocoa has been the crown jewel of Ghana’s agricultural exports, captivating international markets and fueling the country's economy. But beneath the surface, another wave of commodities is rising—each offering its own unique flavor, utility, and potential. These other “hidden gems” are increasingly piquing the interest of global buyers seeking something new, fresh, and profitable.

Today, we’re taking a deeper look at some of these rising stars—soybeans, ginger, and chili pepper—and how they’re setting the stage for Ghana’s next big export revolution.

Unearthing the Hidden Gems

 When you think of soybeans, ginger, or chili pepper, you might picture ingredients in your pantry or products on a grocery store shelf. But for the regions of Ghana where these crops are grown—Northern Region for soybeans, Eastern Region for ginger, and Volta Region for chili peppers—these commodities represent more than just food. They’re a livelihood, a potential ticket to global markets that are increasingly hungry for unique, high-quality produce.

Take soybeans, for example. In Ghana, soybeans are renowned for their high protein content and non-GMO status, making them a favorite in the health-conscious global market. Ginger, on the other hand, is prized for its potency and high oil content—ideal for culinary, medicinal, and industrial uses. And then there’s chili pepper, famed for its distinct heat and vibrant color, which makes it a sought-after spice in global food industries, especially in Europe.

Much like cocoa had its time to rise, these crops are now carving their own path and catching the discerning eyes of buyers around the world.

The Global Appetite for Ghana’s Produce

 The demand for these lesser-known commodities is not just a recent development—it’s been steadily gaining momentum. The global markets for soybeans, ginger, and chili are growing, driven by diverse industries from food processing to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

For ginger, demand has skyrocketed, especially as supply disruptions in Nigeria have led buyers to seek out Ghana as a reliable alternative. The ginger industry, once overshadowed, is now standing tall as a key player in the food processing, pharmaceutical, and even cosmetic industries, with Ghana’s version valued for its strength and purity.

Chili pepper has experienced a similar boost. In 2021, Ghana became the largest exporter of chili to the UK outside of the European Union. Timing played a pivotal role here—Ghana’s chili harvest filled a gap left by India during their dry season, allowing Ghanaian farmers to meet critical market needs. It’s a perfect example of how understanding market timing can be as crucial as the quality of the crop itself.

The rise in demand is a signal to procurement professionals around the world: Ghana’s agricultural landscape offers new opportunities, and the window to invest is wide open.

The Road Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

But like any treasure hunt, uncovering these gems doesn’t come without challenges. Ghana’s ginger farmers, for instance, have faced pest outbreaks and perishability issues, while the chili industry once dealt with a European export ban due to sanitary concerns. Yet, much like miners refining raw materials, Ghanaian farmers, cooperatives, and agribusinesses are refining their processes. Investments in better farming practices, improved inputs, and enhanced storage solutions have bolstered the industry’s resilience.

Procurement professionals can play a vital role in this story by supporting local farmers, promoting sustainable farming practices, and ensuring that these crops reach their full potential on the international stage. Strategic partnerships and investments can also help unlock the true value of Ghana’s agro-commodity exports.

Sustainable Sourcing: The New Frontier

 The global market’s appetite isn’t just for products—it’s for transparency and sustainability. Procurement professionals are increasingly seeking ethically sourced commodities, and Ghana is rising to the occasion. Initiatives like the establishment of ginger processing factories in Bono East and Ashanti Regions, alongside global certifications such as GLOBALGAP for chili and ASTA for ginger, are ensuring that Ghana’s crops meet international standards.

Attention to detail at every stage—farming, processing, and logistics—ensures the final product is of impeccable quality. Procurement professionals who embrace this level of care not only get a premium product but also build consumer trust and support responsible, sustainable farming practices.

Complete Farmer’s Success Stories: Paving the Way for the Future

 At Complete Farmer, we’ve been at the forefront of these developments. Our partnerships serve as a testament to the growing demand for Ghanaian commodities. A notable example is our collaboration with a leading Ghanaian FCMG, where we facilitated a deal for 10,000 MT of soybeans. This deal not only showcased the strong market potential of Ghanaian soybeans but also highlighted the trust international buyers have placed in us.

Additionally, our work with leading spice manufacturer supplying dry ginger, underscores Ghana’s increasing prominence in the global ginger market. These success stories are proof of Ghana’s evolving role in the global agricultural value chain.

The Future of Ghana’s Agro-Commodity Exports

As global tastes shift toward plant-based, healthy, and ethically sourced products, Ghana’s lesser-known crops are primed for growth. Soybeans, for example, is becoming a key player in the global push for plant-based proteins, while ginger continues to dominate in health-conscious markets for its medicinal properties.

For local farmers and cooperatives, the benefits of increased demand are already being felt—higher incomes, better farming techniques, and stronger partnerships with international buyers. These commodities may have been hidden gems in the past, but today, they’re emerging as the next big thing.

Just as cocoa once captivated global markets, soybeans, ginger, and chili peppers are set to be the new standard-bearers of Ghana’s agricultural potential. And for procurement professionals, this is more than just an opportunity—it’s a chance to be part of the next chapter in Ghana’s agricultural story. Uncovering these agro-commodities could lead to rich rewards, both for the global market and for the farmers who make it all possible.

Final Thoughts

The world is ready for more than just cocoa from Ghana. It’s time for these hidden gems—soybeans, ginger, and chili pepper—to take their place on the global stage. The future of Ghana’s agro-commodity exports is bright, and those who invest early will find themselves well-positioned in this exciting new landscape.

For procurement professionals ready to diversify their sourcing and capitalize on the untapped potential of Ghana’s hidden agro-commodities, the time to act is now. Join us at Complete Farmer, where we’re transforming these opportunities into lasting partnerships. Explore how you can be part of the next wave of Ghanaian exports by contacting us today on +233201468190 or via email at buyer@completefarmer.com.

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Contributors: Emmanuel Sampson, Priscilla Baah.