Mozambique export

Mozambique, a nation richly endowed with both natural resources and agricultural potential, presents a compelling export profile that significantly impacts its economy. The country's diverse export sectors include minerals and natural resources, agricultural products, fishing and aquaculture, timber, and manufactured goods, each playing a crucial role in driving economic growth and international trade relations.

Minerals and natural resources

Minerals and natural resources are at the forefront of Mozambique's export economy, contributing between 40-52% of the total export revenue. Chief among these is coal, which alone accounts for approximately 30-35% of export earnings. Mozambique's coal reserves, particularly in the Tete Province, are among the largest in the world, making it a major supplier to markets in India, China, and other Asian countries. Additionally, the discovery of vast natural gas deposits in the Rovuma Basin has poised Mozambique to become a significant future player in the global energy market. Currently, natural gas contributes about 5-10% to export revenues, a figure that is expected to rise substantially as liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects come online. The export of heavy sands, including ilmenite, rutile, and zircon, adds another 5-7% to the country's export earnings, supplying industries worldwide that use these minerals in various applications.

Agricultural products

Agricultural products also form a substantial part of Mozambique's export portfolio, contributing approximately 13-21% of export revenues. Among these, cashew nuts are particularly notable, with Mozambique being one of the top producers globally. Cashew nuts contribute roughly 5-7% to the export earnings, with significant markets in Europe, the United States, and Asia. Sugar, primarily processed in the southern and central regions, accounts for around 2-4% of the total exports, mainly destined for the European Union under preferential trade agreements. Tobacco farming in the northern provinces adds another estimated 3-5%, with exports directed to Europe and China. Cotton grown in the central and northern regions contributes between 2-4%, supplying textile industries worldwide, particularly in Asia. Emerging crops like sesame and soybeans combined contribute around 1-3%, reflecting growing demand from markets in India, the Middle East, and within Africa.

Fishing and aquaculture sector

The fishing and aquaculture sector, taking advantage of Mozambique's extensive coastline, provides around 2-4% of the export revenue. Fish and seafood, including prawns, are major export items, particularly to Europe and Asia. Timber and forest products also play a role in Mozambique's export landscape, contributing approximately 2-3%, with hardwood being predominantly exported to China and India.

Manufactured goods

Manufactured goods, especially aluminum from the Mozal Aluminum Smelter, significantly bolster Mozambique's export capabilities. This sector alone accounts for approximately 25-30% of total export revenue, demonstrating the importance of industrial diversification in the country's economic strategy.

Regional and international trade agreements

Mozambique's strategic location along the Indian Ocean coast enhances its trade connectivity, providing easy access to major international shipping routes. The country's participation in regional and international trade agreements, such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), facilitates preferential access to various markets, further boosting its export potential.