Sub-Saharan Africa to Increase Food Imports by 55% by 2035

Sub-Saharan Africa is expected to increase its net food imports by 55% by 2035, as rapid population growth continues to outpace domestic agricultural production. The forecast, published by the FAO and the OECD, projects that the share of imported food in the region’s total consumption will rise from 20% in 2023–2025 to 22% by 2035.

Cereals will remain the foundation of the regional diet, with corn continuing to be the dominant staple crop. At the same time, rising urbanization and growing household incomes are expected to boost consumption of rice, sugar, and livestock products. Overall meat consumption across the region is projected to increase by about 32%.

In addition, Sub-Saharan Africa is expected to record the fastest growth in seafood consumption worldwide, increasing by nearly 20% by 2035—almost twice the global average. The expanding demand for food is making the region one of the world’s most promising markets for agricultural exporters.

Tags: Africa