UK–Ghana Trade Forum pushes industrial transformation, 24-hour economy

The two-day UK–Ghana Trade and Investment Forum opened in Accra with a strong emphasis on industrial transformation, strategic partnerships and financing for priority growth sectors, underscoring the deepening economic ties between the two nations.

Organised by the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) in collaboration with the UK Government, Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programmes Secretariat, and DMA Invest, the event convened UK investors, Ghanaian businesses and senior government officials.

The goal was to strengthen dialogue and drive commercial collaboration between Ghana and the United Kingdom.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Agribusiness, Sampson Ahi, highlighted Ghana’s ongoing efforts to accelerate industrialisation and attract foreign investment.

He assured participants of the government’s readiness to create an enabling environment for private sector growth, noting that Ghana’s status as host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat gives the country a unique advantage.

“Our government is committed to building a competitive investment climate and deepening UK–Ghana collaboration. This forum creates the ideal environment for UK businesses to explore opportunities and form strategic partnerships with local firms,” Mr Ahi stated.

Speaking under the theme ‘Ghana’s Industrial Transformation Agenda: Strategic Entry Points for UK Business Partnerships,’ Mr Ahi outlined priority sectors for investment, including agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, machinery and textiles.

He cited successful UK-backed ventures such as Blue Skies and Demeter Ghana Ltd as proof of the opportunities created by the UK–Ghana Trade Partnership Agreement.

A major highlight was a presentation on Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy initiative. Presidential Advisor, Goosie Tanoh, explained that the policy aims to create jobs, expand production capacity and boost economic activity around the clock.

“Achieving the vision of the 24-Hour Economy requires targeted investment, access to long-term financing and strong public-private partnerships,” Mr Tanoh said.

He added that the initiative could transform agriculture, pharmaceuticals, textiles and technology, positioning Ghana as a regional and global trade hub.

Discussions also explored financing opportunities for private sector growth and the practical realities of doing business in Ghana from the perspective of UK firms already operating in the country.

His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, John Humphrey, reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to stronger trade ties.

“The UK–Ghana Trade Partnership Agreement offers immense opportunities for businesses on both sides to scale, innovate and thrive,” Mr Humphrey stated.

Annika Craine, Director of Partnerships at DMA Invest, noted that her outfit led the UK business delegation because of the unique opportunities presented by Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Programmes.

“Some of the businesses are experts in infrastructure, financing and insurance. These are companies who are here to impact and add value to the economy. We look forward to seeing the impact that partnerships, networking and deal-making will bring,” she remarked.

Adjoba Kyiamah, Executive Director of the UKGCC, stressed the forum’s strategic importance in advancing bilateral economic cooperation.

“This forum is incredibly important to us at the UKGCC because our work is centred on engaging with both the Ghana and UK governments on behalf of our member companies. Both governments are pursuing robust growth strategies, and these align perfectly with the interests of our member businesses, which are committed to viability, sustainability and contributing meaningfully to both economies,” she noted.

Ms Kyiamah added that the two-day event offers a practical platform for direct engagement between UK investors and Ghana-based firms, aiming to foster partnerships and generate tangible business deals.

“As part of the global network of British Chambers of Commerce, we provide a vital platform for our members to connect, collaborate and thrive. We actively advocate for a business-friendly environment both in Ghana and the UK, and we are committed to doing everything we can to support the success and sustainability of our member businesses,” she explained.

The forum concluded with business delegations visiting the ministries of Finance; Trade, Agribusiness and Industry; and Food and Agriculture, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for new trade and investment opportunities that promise to strengthen the UK–Ghana economic partnership.