Ghanaian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are preparing to position themselves strategically to take advantage of new trade opportunities in Europe as GhanaFest Europe 2025 approaches.
The three-day festival, set for October 23–25, 2025, at the Amare Convention Centre in The Hague, Netherlands, is expected to spotlight Ghanaian processed foods, textiles, handicrafts, cosmetics, and fintech innovations before an international audience. But experts caution that success will depend on SMEs’ readiness to meet strict European market standards and build sustainable trade relationships.
Dr. Mrs. Emelia Assiakwa, First Vice President of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), emphasised that the event is more than an exhibition. “It is about transforming Ghanaian products into globally competitive brands,” she said. “The visibility is important, but the long-term gain lies in compliance, quality, and consistency.”
Stakeholders say that while Ghanaian goods have strong cultural appeal, many SMEs struggle with packaging, certification, and logistics, which limit their competitiveness in Europe.
GhanaFest Europe 2025, therefore, is seen not just as a showcase but as a testing ground for how well Ghanaian businesses can adapt to international trade requirements.
Ms. Hilde Famaey, General Manager of the Ghana Netherlands Business Culture Council, underscored the importance of moving beyond mere product displays.
She urged Ghanaian businesses to use the platform to pitch investment-ready projects that can attract financing and long-term partnerships.
“This is not just about sales. It is about scaling up, securing capital, and embedding Ghanaian enterprises into global value chains,” she noted.
The festival also builds on Ghana’s long-standing trade relationship with the Netherlands, particularly in cocoa.
The Netherlands remains one of the largest buyers of Ghanaian cocoa and a critical hub for West African agricultural products.
Observers believe this foundation can be extended to other export-ready goods, provided SMEs can upgrade standards and delivery systems.
Beyond trade, GhanaFest Europe is also expected to deepen cultural and diaspora ties.
Mr. Kofi Okyere Darko, Director of the Diaspora Affairs Office at the Presidency, said the event would help Ghanaian businesses nurture a transnational identity.
“This festival is about sending a message to Europe that products made in Ghana represent quality, sustainability, and creativity,” he said.
Industry analysts say that while the GNCCI’s initiative is timely, Ghanaian SMEs must tackle persistent challenges such as limited access to finance, inadequate export knowledge, and weak digital visibility. Without addressing these, the full benefits of platforms like GhanaFest may remain out of reach.
