In a move to bolster trade and investment between Dubai and Ghana, Mr. Cyril Darkwa, Chief Representative of the Dubai Chamber International Office in Ghana, paid a courtesy call on Dr. Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), on March 20, 2025. The meeting, held at the GFZA’s Head Office, was in the favor of both institutions to enhance bilateral trade relations and explore mutual business opportunities.
Mr. Darkwa provided an overview of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce’s (DCC) mandate and activities, highlighting the establishment of its Accra representative office in January 2015. This office serves as a pivotal link, fostering business relations between Dubai and West Africa, playing a crucial role in assisting Ghanaian companies to expand their presence in Dubai and vice versa, offering services such as market intelligence, networking opportunities, and trade facilitation programs.
The meeting comes against the backdrop of a significant surge in economic collaboration between Dubai and Ghana. Recent reports indicate that bilateral trade between the two regions witnessed a remarkable 110% increase, soaring from $2.5 billion in 2021 to $5.3 billion in 2022.  This growth reflects the strengthening economic ties and the vibrant business landscape between the two nations. Again, the UAE of which includes Dubai, emerged as a major destination for Ghana’s exports, particularly in Q4 2024, accounting for 23.3% of total exports and 40% of gold exports.
Dr. Awusi expressed appreciation for the DCC’s visit and reaffirmed the GFZA’s readiness to collaborate in areas of trade facilitation, business development, and knowledge exchange. She stressed on the Authority’s interest in engaging with operators from Dubai’s various free zones to learn best practices and explore collaborative ventures for mutual benefit.
The Dubai International Chamber’s Office in Ghana has been instrumental in fostering close trade and commerce activities since its inception in 2015. The office has assisted numerous businesses with information on trade and doing business in both Dubai and Ghana, offering services such as business events, B2B meetings, market intelligence support, and trade missions. 
Mr. Darkwa lauded the GFZA for its pivotal role in attracting the Dubai investor community to Ghana. He pledged the Dubai Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to facilitating a conducive business and investment atmosphere, aiming to further strengthen the economic partnership between Dubai and Ghana.
