Ready-to-Eat Meals - Central Africa

Central Africa

Highlights

Revenue in the Ready-to-Eat Meals market amounts to US$2.42bn in 2024. The market is expected to grow annually by 9.10% (CAGR 2024-2029).
In global comparison, most revenue is generated China (US$149bn in 2024).
In relation to total population figures, per person revenues of US$25.12 are generated in 2024.
In the Ready-to-Eat Meals market, volume is expected to amount to 674.00m kg by 2029. The Ready-to-Eat Meals market is expected to show a volume growth of 6.8% in 2025.0.
The average volume per person in the Ready-to-Eat Meals market is expected to amount to 5.7kg in 2024.

Key regions:

Market definitionIn-Scope/Out-of-scopeMarket structureMethodology

The Ready-to-Eat Meals Market in Central Africa is experiencing subdued growth, influenced by factors such as limited consumer awareness and the convenience offered by traditional food options. Despite this, the Convenience Food Market in the region is still seeing modest growth due to the increasing adoption of digital technologies and rising health consciousness among consumers.

Customer preferences: As the demand for convenience continues to rise, consumers in Central Africa are increasingly turning to ready-to-eat meals as a time-saving and hassle-free solution for their busy lifestyles. This trend is also being driven by the growing urbanization and westernization of the region, leading to a preference for quick and easy meal options. Furthermore, the rise of e-commerce and online food delivery services is making it even easier for consumers to access a variety of ready-to-eat meals at their fingertips.

Trends in the market: In Central Africa, the Ready-to-Eat Meals Market of the Convenience Food Market within The Food market is experiencing a surge in demand due to the growing population and urbanization. This has led to an increase in the availability of packaged meals in supermarkets and convenience stores. Additionally, there is a rising trend of online food delivery services, providing consumers with quick and easy access to ready-to-eat meals. These trends are significant as they cater to the busy lifestyles of consumers and offer convenience. However, there may be potential implications for traditional food businesses, as they may face competition from these new players in the market.

Local special circumstances: In Central Africa, the Ready-to-Eat Meals Market of the Convenience Food Market within The Food market is heavily influenced by the region's challenging infrastructure and limited access to fresh food. This has led to a rise in demand for shelf-stable, pre-packaged meals that can be easily transported and stored. Additionally, cultural preferences for spicy, savory flavors have resulted in a unique range of locally-sourced, ready-to-eat options. Furthermore, regulatory barriers and import restrictions have encouraged the growth of domestic players, creating a competitive market with a strong focus on product innovation.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The Ready-to-Eat Meals Market of the Convenience Food Market within The Food market is influenced by macroeconomic factors such as changing consumer lifestyles, rising urbanization, and increasing disposable incomes in Central Africa. As more people shift to busier lifestyles, the demand for convenient and quick meal options is expected to rise. Additionally, the region's improving economic health and government initiatives to promote foreign investment and ease of doing business are attracting more players to the market. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and high import tariffs may hinder market growth.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the total consumer spending on food, which comprises all private household spending on food that is meant for at-home consumption (out-of-home consumption is not accounted for).

Modeling approach:

Market sizes are determined through a top-down approach, building on specific predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use resources from the Statista platform as well as in-house market research, national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, companies, the trade press, and the experience of our analysts. In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, consumer spending, and consumer price index. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the exponential trend smoothing is well suited for forecasting the Food market with a projected steady growth. The main drivers are GDP per capita and consumer spending per capita.

Additional notes:

The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year.