Trade Minister Urges Ghana International Bank to Invest in Agro-Processing, Export-Ready Businesses
The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Mrs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has urged Ghana International Bank (GHIB) to invest in agro-processing and support export-ready businesses as part of the government’s industrialisation agenda.
The Minister made the call when she received a delegation from Ghana International Bank, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ian Greenstreet, on a courtesy call in Accra on Wednesday.
In her remarks, the Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to promote agro-processing, value addition, and support for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs).
She encouraged the bank to identify companies that are export-ready, market-oriented, and capable of making a significant impact, as well as efficient small businesses that require financial support to scale their operations.
She noted that investing in viable businesses with strong growth potential would not only support Ghana’s industrialisation agenda but also guarantee sustainable returns on investment for the bank.
“Let us work together to support small companies that have approached us and have demonstrated resilience over time through your financial support,” she said.
Mrs Ofosu-Adjare disclosed that the Ekumfi Juice Factory would soon receive additional government support to expand its operations, increase the processing of pineapples and pawpaw, and boost Ghana’s export capacity.
She said this would also enhance the country’s global brand, particularly in the United Kingdom market.
The Minister urged Ghana International Bank to consider investing in the cocoa and cashew sectors, describing them as promising areas with significant opportunities for financing and growth.
“I believe agro-processing is a good area for you to invest,” the Minister emphasised.
She added that government would intensify its focus on the oil palm sector in the coming year, while two additional cashew processing factories are expected to be established.
The GHIB Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ian Greenstreet, said the partnership between the bank, the Ministry and its agency and the Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM) would foster strategic collaboration aimed at strengthening Ghana’s export sector.
He indicated that the collaboration would help expand international business opportunities, support Ghanaian enterprises, and accelerate economic growth.
Adwoa Koramah Anokye-Gyimah, ISD
