Vice President Calls for Stronger Export Strategy at GEXIM@10 Conference

By Tina Moses Sam
Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has urged the Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM) to intensify efforts to support value addition, industrial production, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to strengthen Ghana’s export competitiveness.
She made the call at the GEXIM@10 International Conference held in Accra on March 25, 2026, marking a decade of the Bank’s operations.
The conference, held under the theme “A Decade of Enabling Export Trade and Industrial Transformation: Resetting GEXIM for the Next Frontier,” forms part of activities to review progress and reposition the institution for the future.
The Vice President noted that while Ghana has made progress in export development, the country must shift from exporting raw materials to producing value-added goods.
She explained that evolving global trade dynamics require stronger institutions, expanded export financing, and deliberate policies that move Ghana higher up the value chain.
Her remarks align with broader national and continental calls to prioritise industrialisation and reduce dependency on primary commodity exports.
The Vice President highlighted the importance of MSMEs in driving export growth and job creation. She urged GEXIM to deepen its support for small businesses by improving access to finance, building capacity, and creating opportunities for participation in international trade.
Experts note that although MSMEs contribute significantly to employment, their participation in export trade remains limited, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.
Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, described the conference as a “working session” focused on delivering actionable outcomes.
He stressed the need for practical and time-bound solutions to challenges such as access to finance, compliance costs, and export readiness. He added that addressing these constraints is essential for enabling Ghanaian businesses to compete effectively in global markets.
Chief Executive of GEXIM, Sylvester Adinam Mensah, outlined the Bank’s achievements over the past decade, including its role in supporting export diversification and industrial growth.
He noted that the Bank has helped businesses expand production, improve quality, and access new markets through financing, guarantees, and technical assistance.