The Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Mr Sampson Ahi, has urged the private sector to increase investment in Ghana’s tree crop sector, describing it as one of Africa’s most attractive agribusiness areas.
He made this call on Thursday at the maiden Ghana Tree Crops Investment Summit and Exhibition 2026 in Accra.
He stated that the sector is shifting from the export of raw commodities to value addition and industrial processing. He noted that cocoa, rubber, cashew, shea, oil palm and coconut production now present opportunities beyond primary exports.
According to the Minister, Ghana earns billions of dollars from tree crop exports each year, but greater returns can be achieved through expanded local processing.
He cited policy reforms designed to reduce investment risk, including a ban on the export of raw rubber lumps to secure supply for domestic processors and referred to the government’s target of processing 50 per cent of Ghana’s cocoa locally, supported by structured supply arrangements through the Ghana Cocoa Board.
He said these steps improve the commercial viability of processing ventures and strengthen their appeal to financiers.
Mr Ahi highlighted the “Feed the Industry” programme, which aggregates output from more than two million farmers through cooperatives and out-grower schemes.
He explained that the system supports traceability, sustainability standards and reliable supply, which are required in premium markets in Europe and North America.
He added that Ghana offers a stable political environment, a firm legal framework, efficient port facilities and a young, English-speaking workforce.
“As host of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, Ghana provides access to a market of about 1.3 billion people across the continent,” he said.
The Deputy Minister assured investors that the Ministry’s agribusiness unit will assist with permits, land acquisition, linkages to farmer cooperatives and financing engagements.
Irene Wirekoaa Osei, ISD
