Africa's maritime sector is a vital engine for economic growth, with seaports and trade terminals playing a crucial role in connecting businesses to international markets. Despite accounting for only 2.7% of global trade by value, the continent contributes 7% of global maritime exports and 5% of maritime imports by volume. A recent report by The Global Firepower has revealed the top 10 African countries with the most seaports and trade terminals in 2025, highlighting the importance of these facilities in facilitating trade and driving economic activity.

Leading the pack is Egypt, with 31 seaports and trade terminals, followed closely by Nigeria with 28. Angola, Algeria, and Tunisia round out the top five, with 21, 17, and 16 facilities, respectively. The remaining five countries in the top 10 are Libya, Madagascar, Morocco, Mozambique, and Gabon, with 14, 13, 12, 11, and 9 facilities, respectively.

The growth of Africa's port capacity has been significant over the years, with container traffic surging by nearly 50% between 2011 and 2021, from 24.5 million to 35.8 million container units, according to the African Development Bank. This expansion has been fueled by investments in trade terminals, which handle specific types of cargo, such as containers, oil, and bulk commodities, and play a crucial role in improving logistics efficiency.

However, despite their growing importance, many African ports still struggle with infrastructure deficits that limit their full potential. Issues such as outdated equipment, a lack of deepwater berths, and inefficient cargo-handling facilities often lead to congestion and costly delays. Poor road and rail connectivity further compounds the problem, making inland transportation slow and expensive.

Addressing these infrastructure challenges will be crucial to unlocking the full potential of Africa's maritime sector. As the continent continues to grow and develop, the importance of efficient and effective seaports and trade terminals will only increase. By investing in these facilities and addressing the underlying infrastructure deficits, African countries can position themselves for success in the global economy and drive economic growth and development.

The top 10 African countries with the most seaports and trade terminals in 2025 are:

As Africa continues to navigate the complexities of global trade and economic development, the importance of its maritime sector will only continue to grow. By understanding the current state of the continent's seaports and trade terminals, policymakers and business leaders can work together to address the challenges and unlock the full potential of this vital sector.