In a keynote address delivered on behalf of the Vice President, Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, championed the convergence of trade policy and diplomatic outreach as the key to Ghana’s economic prosperity. Speaking at the 4th Made-in-Ghana Bazaar, he emphasized that an effective national export agenda requires a unified effort across ministries and government agencies.
Addressing a distinguished audience, including members of the diplomatic corps and captains of industry, Ahi stated, “Economic diplomacy is not simply a slogan. It is a dynamic process that integrates trade promotion, investment facilitation, and the advancement of our national economic interests on the global stage.”
He commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for organizing the event, noting that its purpose aligns perfectly with the trade promotion objectives of his own Ministry. This collaboration, he stressed, is essential for expanding Ghana’s presence in international markets.
The Deputy Minister highlighted a particularly significant initiative: the development of a comprehensive brochure to serve as a directory of Made-in-Ghana products and key export information. This directory, slated for distribution through Ghana’s missions worldwide, is designed to significantly boost the global visibility of Ghanaian goods.
Sampson Ahi noted that for this brochure to be truly effective, close collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry is crucial. His Ministry’s access to market intelligence and export performance data will ensure the directory evolves from a simple catalog into a strategic trade tool that is both targeted and responsive to global demand.
He also acknowledged the vital roles of key implementing agencies in this collaborative effort. The Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) is tasked with building the capacity of export-ready businesses and organizing international trade showcases. The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) facilitates strategic partnerships that help scale up production and deepen Ghana’s industrial base. The Ghana EXIM Bank (GEXIM) provides crucial financing and guarantees to empower Ghanaian enterprises to compete globally.
With the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat headquartered in Accra, the Deputy Minister affirmed Ghana’s unique position to lead intra-African trade and regional integration. He urged stakeholders to ensure that the Made-in-Ghana brand not only aligns with AfCFTA opportunities but also with global value chains, making the nation’s goods globally recognized.
In closing, he reiterated the Vice President’s commitment to enhancing collaboration between ministries and fostering a more responsive ecosystem for export growth.
”Together, we will champion economic diplomacy, connect our producers with markets and opportunities, and propel Made-in-Ghana from a national aspiration to a global reality,” he concluded.
Story By: Eric Boateng/Eugenia Ewoenam Osei
