Ghana, Pakistan deepen agricultural ties
The Minister of Food and Agriculture, Eric Opoku, has underscored the importance of deepening agricultural collaboration between Ghana and Pakistan, as he addressed the opening of the Pakistan Rice Roadshow held in Accra.
Speaking as the chief guest at the event, Minister Opoku welcomed the Pakistani delegation and commended the High Commission of Pakistan, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, and Ghanaian partner institutions for their joint efforts in organising the forum.
“Rice has become one of the most important staples in Ghana, with consumption rising sharply in recent years,” he said.
Mr Opoku highlighted Pakistan’s reputation as a world leader in rice production and export, particularly its premium basmati and long-grain varieties, noting that this expertise offers Ghana both access to high-quality imports and valuable lessons in research, mechanisation, and value-chain development.
“This forum represents more than a rice exhibition. It is a platform for knowledge sharing, trade linkages, and long-term partnerships,” he stated.
The Minister emphasised that the B2B engagements arranged during the forum will enable Ghanaian traders, importers, and farmer-based organisations to interact directly with Pakistani exporters.
Such collaborations, he suggested, could evolve into joint ventures in rice milling, packaging, storage, logistics, and even technology transfer for local farmers.
Mr Opoku pointed to broader opportunities for cooperation in agricultural technology, food processing, and agro-industrial investment. He stressed that through sustained collaboration, both nations can build resilient agricultural systems that create jobs, reduce import dependence, and strengthen food security.
Acknowledging the efforts of supporting institutions, including the Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate, Customs Division, Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), and the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), the Minister urged stakeholders to view the event as the beginning of a long-term partnership.
“Together, Ghana and Pakistan can turn challenges into opportunities, and opportunities into shared prosperity,” Minister Opoku emphasised.
