Togo: When the service sector consolidates its position as a pillar of the national economy

The economic transformation of Togo is advancing, with the services sector now accounting for a growing share of the national output. Recent data from the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) shows services increased their contribution to GDP from 61.3% in 2022 to 61.9% in 2024, solidifying their role as the primary engine of the national economy.

During the same period, the primary sector’s share slightly declined, while the secondary sector remained stable at around 20%.

This structural shift underscores the rising vitality of trade, transport, telecommunications, and financial services driven by rapid urbanization and digital expansion, particularly in Lomé.

The growing of the tertiary sector of the country is also a result of strategic developments in maritime and land transport, modernization of the Autonomous Port of Lomé, and the expansion of banking and digital services.

Lomé is increasingly establishing itself as a key regional logistics and financial hub.

Within the West African Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), Togo is now one of the most service-oriented economies.

At 61.9%, it trails only Côte d’Ivoire (62.3%) and exceeds the regional average of 56.2%.

Despite this progress, challenges remain particularly in boosting the productivity and competitiveness of local service providers. Transport alone contributed nearly 30% of service revenues in 2024.

To sustain this momentum, the Togolese government is urged to promote innovation, skills training, and broader digital integration across the sector.

Ensuring balanced and sustainable growth will also require increased focus on adding value through industrial and agricultural transformation, enabling these sectors to contribute more substantially to national economic resilience.

Xavier Messanh