By Mercy Darko
Total trade in goods and services between the UK and Ghana hit three point 42 billion dollars in 2023, compared to the three point zero four billion dollars recorded in 2022.
This follows the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries.
At the opening of the 9th session of the UK Ghana Business Council at the Jubilee House, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia said that since the inception of the council, trade relations between the two countries have remained strong, with tremendous improvement in areas such as commerce and construction.
He said Ghana remains an attractive investment hub, especially with the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat in Accra, which presents opportunities for investment. He called for more engagements to enhance economic and commercial trade for mutual benefit of the two Countries.
The UK Ghana Business Council was established with a focus on deepening trade and investment as well as strengthening strategic partnership in key areas. Over the years, the council has facilitated investments in agro-processing, garments and textiles, pharmaceuticals and roads, among others. The council also witnessed the launch of a UK Ghana Investor Group to identify new investor opportunities to support Ghana’s recovery plan. Vice President Bawumia said commerce and trade between Ghana and the UK have been encouraging. He proposed deepened collaboration in the area of technology.
The UK Minister of State for Development and Africa, Andrew Mitchell, acknowledged the important role the UK Ghana Business Council has played in deepening relations between the two countries. He noted that, although there are economic challenges, the UK will continue to support Ghana. He indicated that the UK has earmarked two million dollars to support the New Climate Finance agenda.
The meeting will discuss ways both countries can improve on existing trade relations, among others. Mr. Mitchell was accompanied by the UK Trade Envoy to Ghana, Baroness Kate Hoey; Market Access and Trade Advisor, Charlene Mills; and UK High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson, among others.
Ghana’s Trade and Industry Minister, K.T. Hammond; Deputy Transport Minister, Alhassan Tampuli; and Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr. John Kuma, will engage their UK counterparts.
