China, France and India Remain Togo’s Leading Suppliers in Q3 2025

Economic governance

Monday, 16 February 2026 16:11

China, France and India Remain Togo’s Leading Suppliers in Q3 2025

(Togo First) - China strengthened its position as Togo’s top trading partner in the third quarter of 2025, with exports to the West African country totaling 114.8 billion CFA francs, or 25.8% of overall imports.

Data from the national statistics institute (INSEED) show that imports from China reached 158,700 tonnes during the quarter.

France ranked second, far behind, with 29.6 billion CFA francs, accounting for 6.6% of imports. India followed with 27.3 billion CFA francs, representing a 6.1% share.

Nigeria was the fourth-largest supplier, accounting for 5.3% of imports. Japan, Saudi Arabia and Malaysia were also among the main partners, with shares of 3.9%, 3.7% and 3.7%, respectively.

The top ten suppliers accounted for 64% of total imports during the quarter.

Overall imports stood at 504.9 billion CFA francs, with volumes totaling 1.59 million tonnes. Year on year, imports rose 10.9% in value and 37.4% in volume. The country posted a trade deficit of 255.8 billion CFA francs.

Energy products were the largest import category. Petroleum oils and related preparations amounted to 89.9 billion CFA francs, or 17.6% of total imports. Other major categories included vehicles at 19.9 billion CFA francs, medicines at 18.0 billion, and refined palm oil at 16.1 billion.

Much of these goods are destined for re-export to other Gulf of Guinea and West African markets. The Port of Lomé serves as a key sub-regional hub for these trade flows.

Overall, Togo remains heavily reliant on Asian suppliers, notably China, India and Japan, while energy products dominate its import structure. Trade within the WAEMU bloc also continues to play a significant role in the country’s external commerce.

Ayi Renaud Dossavi

REFORMS OVERVIEW

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In comparison to previous years, Togo has significantly improved its ranking on the “Trading across borders” index by adopting multiple reforms that focus mainly on the digitalization and reduction in delays, for import and export procedures related to import and export.

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