The second edition of GhanaFest Europe 2026, a trade and cultural expo aimed at strengthening economic ties between Ghana and the Netherlands, has been launched in Accra.
The three-day event, scheduled for September 10 to 12, 2026, will be held at the World Trade Centre Amsterdam under the theme: “Value Addition and Sustainable Partnerships: Shaping the Future of Ghana-Netherlands Trade.”
Organised by the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with RAM Media Concepts, the Expo seeks to promote non-traditional exports, tourism, and investment partnerships between the two countries.
Mr Frederick Adu Amoakoh, Operations Manager of GNCCI, described the initiative as a strategic platform to position Ghanaian products within the European market, using the Netherlands as a key entry point.
He said the event would offer businesses the opportunity to showcase products such as textiles, garments, and artefacts to the Ghanaian diaspora and international buyers, while facilitating direct trade engagements.
Mr Amoakoh emphasised that participation would be restricted to credible, export-ready companies capable of meeting international standards and fulfilling large-scale orders.
According to him, the Expo forms part of broader efforts to diversify Ghana’s export base beyond traditional commodities and enhance the global competitiveness of locally manufactured goods.
He expressed optimism that the 2026 edition would build on the success of the inaugural event, delivering measurable outcomes in the form of new partnerships, increased exports, and job creation.
He also called on stakeholders, including businesses, investors, and policymakers, to leverage the platform to forge sustainable partnerships and support Ghana’s economic transformation.
Mr Abeiku Aggrey Santana, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, said the Expo would serve as a convergence point for trade, tourism, culture, and investment.
He noted that Ghana continues to emerge as one of Africa’s fastest-growing tourism destinations, supported by targeted policies and flagship initiatives designed to enhance visitor experience and attract global interest.
Mr Santana highlighted the role of tourism in driving non-traditional exports, explaining that exposure to Ghanaian culture and products often translates into increased international demand.
He added that hosting the event in the Netherlands was strategic, given its role as a gateway to the European Union market and the strong presence of the Ghanaian diaspora.
He reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to supporting GhanaFest Europe, noting that the initiative aligns with national efforts to position Ghana as a preferred destination for tourism, trade, and investment.
Mr Santana further stated that the Expo would enhance cultural diplomacy by showcasing Ghana’s heritage, creative arts, and hospitality to a global audience.
Mr Charles Opoku Mensah, representing the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre, described GhanaFest Europe 2026 as a critical bridge connecting Ghanaian businesses to international markets and investors.
He said the initiative would be particularly beneficial to sectors such as value addition, agribusiness, manufacturing, and the creative economy.
Mr Mensah noted that Ghana’s stable macroeconomic environment, strategic location, and investor-friendly policies continue to position the country as an attractive destination for global capital.
He added that the Centre’s role extends beyond promotion to include aftercare services that support investors and address operational challenges, ensuring a conducive business environment.
He encouraged Ghanaian businesses to present investment-ready projects at the Expo and urged international partners to take advantage of the growing opportunities within Ghana’s economy.
