Diversifying Exports for Growth”: Ghana charts a new pathway for export diversification at the Top Exporters Forum
The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare (MP), has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Ghana’s export landscape through policy reforms, strategic partnerships, and an unwavering focus on diversification. She made this known at the Top Exporters Forum held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at the African Trade House in Accra.
The event brought together Ghana’s leading exporters and key stakeholders across the value chain for a dialogue aimed at addressing challenges in the sector and setting a renewed agenda for growth. From cocoa processors to manufacturers of iron, steel, textiles, and chemicals, the forum recorded strong participation, with many contributors offering insights, raising critical concerns, and proposing innovative solutions.
Welcoming participants, Hon. Ofosu-Adjare acknowledged the significant role exporters play in Ghana’s economic development and the urgent need to reduce over-reliance on a few primary commodities.
“According to the Ghana Statistical Service, while Ghana’s total exports rose from $25.99 billion in 2023 to an estimated $28.5 billion in 2024, Non-Traditional Exports (NTEs) declined, representing only 13.4% of total exports,” the Minister noted. She described the statistics as a wake-up call for urgent diversification.
She outlined the government’s plan to explore more opportunities through bilateral and multilateral trade agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), while also intensifying the implementation of national initiatives such as the Accelerated Export Development Programme and the 24-Hour Economy Policy. “This forum is not just about identifying challenges,” the Minister emphasized. “It is about forging actionable solutions with clear timelines and measurable outputs.”
In her closing remarks, Hon. Ofosu-Adjare assured participants of immediate follow-ups, particularly on issues of energy and taxation. She cited ongoing engagements with relevant agencies to reduce energy costs through time-of-use metering and to address concerns around gas pricing and tax burdens on exporters.
“Exporters must feel the impact of our 24-hour economy policy,” she said. “Our goal is to make the cost of doing business cheaper and to encourage more exports.”
She further announced that a report from the forum would be submitted to H.E. President John Dramani Mahama by Monday, with recommendations guiding future interventions. A working committee will be established to oversee implementation and ensure continuity in government-stakeholder engagement.
The Minister ended by praising the private sector’s commitment and pledged government’s continuous support to make Ghana a globally competitive, export-led economy. “Your growth is Ghana’s growth. Together, we will reposition Ghana as a diversified, resilient, and globally competitive export powerhouse,” she declared.
The forum marked the beginning of a new chapter in Ghana’s export agenda, one anchored on collaboration, innovation, and strategic policy implementation.
The over 50 top exporters who attended the important event expressed their outmost appreciation to the President of the Republic and the sector Minister for this laudable initiative of bringing them together to chart a common path of progress.
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*PR & COMMS UPDATE – MOTAI*
