The agricultural sector in Benin has shown significant growth, contributing 25.4% to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2025. This represents an increase from 24.2% in 2024, according to data from the French Treasury Department. The sector also generated 59.1% of the country's export earnings in 2025. These figures were presented during a review of the agricultural sector's performance in Cotonou on September 22, 2026.
The growth of the agricultural sector in Benin can be attributed to years of investment by the government. The state has been subsidizing fertilizers to support farmers, with an allocation of 31.8 billion FCFA for the 2026-2027 campaign. This move aims to maintain low prices for fertilizers, such as NPK and urea, despite the rising international prices. The government has also facilitated access to high-performance seeds and promoted mechanization.
The agricultural policies implemented by the Beninese government have yielded positive results in certain areas. Rice production increased from 406,000 tons in 2020 to 712,000 tons in 2023, while maize production reached 1.7 million tons. Benin remains the largest cotton producer in West Africa, with 533,590 tons harvested during the 2025-2026 campaign. These achievements demonstrate the country's progress in improving its agricultural productivity.
Benin has made significant strides in governance and food security, according to the National Chamber of Agriculture. The country ranks first in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and fifth on the African continent in terms of fulfilling its commitments under the Malabo Declaration for the period 2015-2025. The government's expenditure on the agricultural sector reached 10.93% in 2025, demonstrating its commitment to the sector.
The review of the agricultural sector's performance also highlighted improvements in food security and reduced tensions between farmers and herders. Sixty-nine communes have been deemed to be meeting their food needs satisfactorily, while conflicts over land access and transhumance corridors decreased by 42.8%. These developments indicate a more stable and secure food environment in Benin.
Despite these achievements, stakeholders have called for more efficient access to inputs, financing, and agricultural advisory services. There is also a need to accelerate the adoption of technological innovations and improve market access for small-scale producers. The country's agricultural sector faces challenges, including post-harvest storage, rural road conditions, and local processing of agricultural products.
The Beninese government and its partners will focus on addressing these challenges and strengthening the sector's resilience to climate change. The country's agricultural sector is expected to continue growing, driven by ongoing investments and policy support. With a continued focus on sustainable development, Benin aims to maintain its position as a leading agricultural producer in West Africa.
Key points
- Benin's agricultural sector contributed 25.4% to the country's GDP and 59.1% of export earnings in 2025.
- The government has been investing in the sector, including subsidizing fertilizers and promoting mechanization.
- Benin ranks first in ECOWAS and fifth on the African continent in terms of fulfilling its commitments under the Malabo Declaration.
