Trade Minister woos Japanese investors with Ghana’s 24-hour economy

The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has urged Japanese investors to take advantage of Ghana’s favourable investment climate and new policy initiatives, including the 24-hour economy, to expand their business operations in West Africa.

Speaking at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama, the Minister described Ghana as a reliable gateway for trade and investment, citing its stable political environment, adherence to the rule of law and strategic geographic location.

“Ghana offers a peaceful and predictable business climate, and we invite Japanese investors to take advantage of our policies and initiatives, including the 24-hour economy, to drive industrial growth and create shared prosperity,” she said.

Mrs Ofosu-Adjare noted that the government remained committed to building resilient industries that would expand productivity and enhance the competitiveness of Ghanaian businesses on the global stage.

On the sidelines of the summit, she held bilateral discussions with Japanese officials and business leaders, focusing on partnerships in agribusiness, manufacturing and technology transfer. The talks, she said, were aimed at strengthening Ghana’s industrial base, boosting job creation and deepening economic ties with Japan.

She further underscored Ghana’s commitment to industrial transformation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing the country as “a natural hub for investment and trade in Africa.”

TICAD 9 brought together African leaders, Japanese officials and international partners to advance cooperation in trade, investment and development. Ghana’s active participation, according to the Minister, reflects the government’s determination to accelerate domestic economic growth while forging stronger global partnerships.