President John Dramani Mahama has signalled a renewed push to reposition Ghana’s export sector as a driver of value-added growth, pledging stronger state backing and expanded access to finance to help exporters scale operations and compete more effectively in regional and global markets.
Speaking at the Ghana Export Promotion Authority’s 33rd and 34th Presidential National Awards for Export Achievements, the President said government has engaged the Ghana Exim Bank to explore options for expanding capital and credit facilities for exporters, a move aimed at easing financing constraints that have limited growth and competitiveness.
“We have exported raw materials for far too long; it is time to add value to our products,” the President said, framing value addition as central to Ghana’s long-term export and industrial strategy.
Mahama said improved access to finance would allow exporters to seize opportunities across Africa and beyond, particularly as trade under regional frameworks expands. He added that government investments in infrastructure, regulatory reforms and institutional capacity building are designed to lower transaction costs and strengthen the operating environment for export-oriented businesses.
The President also encouraged women and young people to participate more actively in the export sector, assuring them of continued efforts to build an enabling business climate that supports entrepreneurship and expansion.
Trade, Agribusiness and Industry Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare said Ghanaian exporters have remained resilient despite global supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures that have raised costs and squeezed margins. She called for closer collaboration between government and the private sector to refine policies and address bottlenecks constraining export growth.
At the ceremony, B5 Plus Ltd was named Exporter of the Year for 2023/2024, highlighting the role of large-scale manufacturers in driving non-traditional exports. Other companies recognised for strong performance included Interplast Ltd, Usibras Ghana Ltd, Olam Food Ingredients Ghana, The Bank Hospital and World Shoe Ltd, among others.
The Presidential National Awards for Export Achievements spotlight firms contributing to export earnings, job creation and industrial development, as government seeks to shift Ghana’s trade profile away from raw commodities toward higher-value manufactured and processed goods.
