Trade Minister Reaffirms Government’s Support for Business Growth at Ashanti Expo 2026

The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Mrs Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting business growth.

She made this statement at the opening of the Ashanti Expo 2026 on Monday in Kumasi.

The Minister stated that the expo provides a platform for businesses to explore new opportunities and position Ghana as an attractive destination for investors. She noted that under President Mahama’s leadership, efforts are ongoing to strengthen the country’s trade and investment landscape.

She highlighted the Feed the Industry Programme as one of the government’s key policies, adding that it aims to link agriculture with industry, add value to local produce, and create more opportunities within both sectors.

Mrs Ofosu-Adjare said the expo also brings together entrepreneurs, farmers and investors, allowing them to build partnerships and grow their businesses. She urged participants to take advantage of Ghana’s position as host of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat to expand into wider African markets.

The minister further drew attention to initiatives targeted at youth and women, including the Women and Youth in Business Empowerment Forum and the Pitch-to-Win Enterprise Growth Challenge, which offer access to finance, mentorship and markets.

She commended the Ashanti Regional Minister and the planning committee for organising the first edition of the expo and called on stakeholders to support it.

On his part, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr Frank Amoakohene, said the government remains focused on improving infrastructure to support trade.

He referenced progress on the Bonkra inland port project, which is expected to ease the movement of goods, and announced that work on the Suame Interchange will resume this week to improve transport and support industrial activity in the area.

The Ashanti Expo 2026 was themed “Unlocking Business Opportunities in the Golden Heart of Ghana.” It was designed to promote investment, expand trade, and support small and medium enterprises across the country.

Irene Wirekoaa Osei, ISD

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