Agriculture and agro-industry are central to the government’s transformation agenda as outlined in the Feuille de Route Gouvernementale Togo 2025. Togo benefits from fertile agro-ecological zones supporting maize, rice, cassava, soybeans, cotton, sesame, coffee and cocoa. Cotton remains the main cash crop, while soybeans have rapidly become a major export commodity in response to rising international demand. Despite strong potential, the sector is dominated by smallholder farmers operating on less than 2 hectares with limited mechanization, weak irrigation coverage and low productivity. The government aims to transition agriculture from subsistence-based to commercial, competitive and export-oriented, anchored in modern value chains, storage and processing zones, and climate-smart innovation.
Economic Contribution
Agriculture represents approximately 20% of GDP and employs around 40% of the workforce, making it essential for growth, food security and poverty reduction. Soybean exports have surpassed 200,000 tons annually, positioning Togo as a key West African supplier. Cotton contributes significantly to export earnings and rural incomes. The agricultural sector has grown by an average of 4% annually over the past decade, driven by input-distribution reforms, fertilizer subsidies and new irrigation initiatives. Agro-industrial processing remains limited, however, with most commodities exported in raw form.
Outlook
The outlook is positive, with major government initiatives focusing on developing agro-industrial parks, strengthening storage infrastructure, mechanization programs and expanding irrigation in the Oti and Kara basins. Value chains in rice, maize, soybeans, cotton, poultry and horticulture are being modernized with support from development partners. The AfCFTA offers new opportunities for processed foods, vegetable oils, animal feed and beverages. Digital agriculture platforms, weather services and satellite monitoring are expected to improve productivity, resilience and market integration.
