Food Imports (% of Merchandise Imports) by Country 2024

Food imports, as a percentage of merchandise imports, provide a compelling insight into a country’s dependency on external sources for food supplies. This metric reflects the role of agriculture in national economies, international trade patterns, and the sustainability of domestic food production systems. In countries with high food import ratios, it may indicate challenges in local agricultural productivity or a reliance on imported food products to meet population demands. This article examines the global landscape of food imports, highlights the top 10 countries with the highest percentages, and provides a comprehensive table to compare all nations.

Top 10 Countries by Food Imports (% of Merchandise Imports)

1. Eritrea: 46%
2. Guinea-Bissau: 42%
3. Kiribati: 41%
4. Yemen, Rep.: 39%
5. Benin: 32.7%
6. Congo: 32%
7. Sierra Leone: 32%
8. Equatorial Guinea: 32%
9. Sao Tome and Principe: 31.8%
10. Samoa: 31%

Eritrea leads the list, with an alarming 46% of its merchandise imports consisting of food. This figure highlights the nation’s heavy reliance on external sources for its food supply, driven by challenges in local agricultural production and limited resources. Similarly, Guinea-Bissau and Kiribati, with food imports constituting 42% and 41% of their merchandise imports respectively, face comparable struggles due to inadequate infrastructure and geographical constraints.

Countries like Yemen (39%) and Sierra Leone (32%) experience compounded challenges due to conflict and instability, which have disrupted domestic agricultural capabilities and left them reliant on imports to meet their populations’ food needs. For small island nations such as Kiribati, Sao Tome and Principe (31.8%), and Samoa (31%), geographic limitations and insufficient arable land make self-sufficiency nearly impossible. Other countries on the list, like Congo and Equatorial Guinea, showcase the paradox of abundant natural resources yet underdeveloped agricultural sectors, resulting in high import dependencies.

Full Table of Food Imports by Country

Food Imports: A Reflection of Global Inequality

High food import percentages often correlate with economic disparities, geopolitical conflicts, and climate-related challenges. Developing nations with limited access to agricultural technology or infrastructure tend to rely heavily on food imports. These countries are also more vulnerable to global food price volatility and supply chain disruptions. Addressing these challenges requires international collaboration, investments in agricultural research, and support for sustainable farming practices.

The Impact of Food Imports on National Economies

For some countries, high food imports strain foreign exchange reserves and increase vulnerability to global market fluctuations. Conversely, nations with diversified economies and robust trade agreements can mitigate these effects. Encouraging local food production, reducing waste, and investing in modern agricultural techniques are vital steps for reducing reliance on imports.

Source

• Food imports (% of merchandise imports) | Data – World Bank Data