Ghana is aiming to boost value addition to raw materials and create a conducive environment for West African trade, Mrs. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Minister of Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry has said.
She made the statement during a weekend visit to Olam Agri, producers of rice and wheat, and Nutrifoods, manufacturers of Tasty Tom tomato paste and biscuit brands like Nutrisnax, King Cracker, Perk, and Milky Magic.
This comes as the US imposes 10 to 50 percent tariffs on products from Ghana and over 180 countries, raising global concerns.
The trade minister acknowledged challenges faced by manufacturers such as Olam Agri and Nutrifoods in trading with neighboring countries.
She said she would work with the Foreign Affairs Minister on bilateral engagements to promote direct trade.
“Not all commodities will qualify [for trade] under the Africa Continental Free Trade (AfCFTA) initiative because of the rules of origin. So, we will work together, making sure that we help each other,” she said.
Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare encouraged manufacturers to increase production levels and source raw materials locally under the government’s Feed the Industry initiative.
The Daily Searchlight is of the firm belief that one way by which African economies can develop, is through trade between African nations.
Through trade, Africa can reduce imports from the East and West, create employment, battle migration of populations, and create more stable political and economic systems.
This is why we believe that all Ghanaians should pull behind the effort to boost trade between Ghana and its neighbours.
Far too often and for far too long, Africa has looked to the East and West when it comes to trade. This has however had a deleterious effect on employment generation, increased migration of populations, and unstable political and economic systems.
Through trade, we can reduce these deficits and chart a stronger path forward together.
(Editorial of the Daily Searchlight of 9th September, 2025).
