Ghana is uniquely positioned to become a major trade and investment hub connecting Africa, the Euro-Mediterranean region, and the Gulf States. Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, stated this core fact. He made these remarks at the Fourth Marrakesh Parliamentary Economic Forum in Morocco.
Ghana's robust political stability, strategic coastal location, and improving transport and port infrastructure provide this advantage. Mr. Bagbin explained these factors make Ghana an attractive gateway for regional and international commerce. The country's location on the West African coast also offers a natural entry point to landlocked Sahelian states and global shipping routes.
This strategic positioning aligns with Ghana's broader economic aspirations to diversify its economy and boost exports. The government has developed a comprehensive policy framework for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This framework includes a National Export Development Strategy. This initiative aims to revitalise Ghana's export sector and target Africa's significant market of over 1.3 billion consumers.
Mr. Bagbin emphasised Ghana's strategic advantage. "Ghana has a strategic advantage which positions the country to boost both intra- and inter-regional trade," he stated. He added that Ghana's location is at the centre of the world. This offers a natural gateway to both landlocked Sahelian states and global shipping lines.
The focus on industrialisation and export diversification strategies, alongside a transition to a 24-hour economy, aims to ensure continuous production and trade facilitation. These efforts will enhance Ghana's global competitiveness. The government's action plan for AfCFTA provides guidelines for value addition to exports. It also strengthens local capacity to compete effectively with imports. This strategy will expand opportunities for job creation across the country. Decision-makers and markets will closely monitor the implementation of these strategies. Ghana's ability to attract foreign direct investment and integrate further into global supply chains will depend on this progress.
Regional economic blocs must move beyond integrating within their regions. Mr. Bagbin urged them to build stronger partnerships across regions. This will enhance trade and expand economic opportunities for mutual benefit. "We must move beyond building regional economic silos to constructing formidable relations across regions," he said. He specifically mentioned relations with the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf States. This demonstrates a clear vision for Ghana's future economic role.