Top 10 pineapple producing countries in Africa

Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a tropical fruit known for its sweet taste, juicy texture, and strong health benefits.

It grows well in warm climates and has become a key crop for many African countries.

Africa’s pineapple production is expected to reach about 20 million metric tons by the end of 2025, with Nigeria, Angola, and Ghana leading the pack.

Nigeria alone is projected to produce 1.91 million metric tons by 2026, making it a major global player.

The continent’s strong production capacity and closeness to markets in the Middle East and Europe make Africa a strong choice for pineapple processing and export.

Africa has grown into one of the world’s top pineapple-producing regions. Increased global demand especially from Europe and the Middle East, has pushed countries to expand farming, improve farming methods, and increase export volumes.

Both large commercial farms and smallholder farmers are benefiting from this growth.

The top producers not only supply local markets but also earn foreign exchange, create jobs, and boost economic development through farming and processing.

Below is a detailed look at the top 10 pineapple-producing countries in Africa in 2025, including their production capacity and market position.

1. Nigeria

Nigeria is Africa’s largest pineapple producer, with output exceeding 1.5 million tonnes annually and projected to reach 1.91 million metric tons by 2026.

This makes Nigeria not only the continent’s leader but also 8th in global pineapple production.

Nigeria’s climate and large farmland make it ideal for pineapple farming. Most production is by small holder farmers.

The country supplies local markets and neighboring countries, and it is rapidly growing in processing and export.

With strong investments in processing plants and storage facilities, Nigeria is positioned to become a major global exporter, especially to Europe and the Middle East.

2. Ghana

Ghana produces about 668,093 tonnes, ranking 2nd in Africa. The country is known for high-quality pineapples, especially the “Queen” variety, which is popular in international markets.

Ghana exports mainly to Europe and the Middle East. The government supports farmers through improved infrastructure and agricultural programs, making Ghana one of the strongest pineapple exporters in Africa.

3. Angola

Angola produces about 663,263 tonnes, ranking 3rd. The country’s main pineapple zones are Kwanza Sul and Bengo, where fertile soil supports large-scale farming.

Foreign investment has boosted farming technology and processing. As Angola strengthens its agricultural sector, pineapple farming is becoming a major part of its economy, especially beyond oil and mining.

4. Benin

Benin produces 406,220 tonnes, making it the 4th largest producer in Africa.

Pineapple farming is mainly done by small holder farmers in Ouémé and Mono regions.

Benin is improving its processing and export capacity. As demand for fresh and processed pineapples rises, Benin is likely to become a stronger exporter within West Africa.

5. Tanzania

Tanzania produced about 372,179 tonnes of pineapples in 2025, ranking 5th. Regions like Tanga, Morogoro, and the coastal belt are key growing areas.

Most pineapples are used locally, but exports are growing, especially to East African countries.

The government is investing in better roads and processing facilities, which will help Tanzania increase its global share.

6. Malawi

Malawi produces around 334,071 tonnes, ranking 6th. Most pineapples are grown by small farmers in the Southern and Central regions.

The crop provides income for many rural families.

Malawi is increasing its focus on processing and regional trade. With more investment in infrastructure and market access, the country could expand its pineapple exports across Africa.

7. Cameroon

Cameroon produces about 312,192 tonnes, placing it 7th in Africa. Pineapple farming is mainly in Central and Littoral regions where weather conditions are ideal.

The sector supports both local consumption and regional trade, but poor roads and limited processing prevent Cameroon from reaching its full potential.

Improved infrastructure and better supply chains could boost exports significantly.

8. Kenya

Kenya produces about 282,655 tonnes of pineapples annually, ranking 8th in Africa.

The country is famous for high-quality pineapples, with large commercial farms like Del Monte Kenya driving production in regions like Thika and Murang’a.

Kenyan pineapples are mostly exported to Europe. The industry earns important foreign exchange, but it faces problems like price fluctuations and limited processing facilities.

With more investment in processing, Kenya could expand its market beyond Europe.

9. Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

DRC is ranked 9th, producing around 190,969 tonnes of pineapples each year.

The country has large areas of fertile land and a climate that supports pineapple farming, especially in provinces like Bas-Congo and Kongo-Central.

Most production is consumed locally because poor roads and weak infrastructure make exporting difficult.

If the country improves transport and processing facilities, DRC could become a major exporter in the future.

10. South Africa

South Africa ranks 10th in Africa’s pineapple production, producing about 128,623 tonnes annually.

The country’s mild winters and warm summers make it suitable for year-round pineapple farming.

Major growing regions include Limpopo and Mpumalanga, where fertile soil supports healthy yields.

South Africa mainly supplies local markets, but it also exports to Europe and the Middle East.

The industry is improving through better farming technology and sustainable practices. However, challenges like land access and water shortages could slow growth unless addressed.