The 2025 UK-Ghana Trade & Investment Forum has opened in Accra with a call for deeper commercial collaboration between the two countries, as government officials and business leaders highlighted Ghana’s industrial transformation agenda and the need for strategic partnerships.
The two-day forum, organised by the UK-Ghana Chamber of Commerce (UKGCC) in partnership with the UK Government, the Secretariat of Ghana’s 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development Programmes, and DMA Invest, has brought together UK investors, Ghanaian businesses, and senior policymakers.
Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister for Trade, Industry and Agribusiness, Sampson Ahi, said Ghana’s position as the host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat provided the country with a unique advantage to attract investment. He stressed government’s readiness to build a competitive climate for business growth.
“Our government is committed to building a competitive investment climate and deepening UK-Ghana collaboration,” he said. “This forum creates the ideal environment for UK businesses to explore opportunities and form strategic partnerships with local firms.”
He pointed to agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, machinery, and textiles as priority areas for investment, citing ventures such as Blue Skies and Demeter Ghana Ltd. as evidence of the success of UK-Ghana trade under the Trade Partnership Agreement.
A major highlight of the forum was the presentation of Ghana’s 24H+ Economy initiative by Presidential Advisor Goosie Tanoh. He described the policy as a transformative strategy to create jobs, expand production, and accelerate round-the-clock economic activity.
“Achieving the vision of the 24-Hour Economy requires targeted investment, access to long-term financing, and strong public-private partnerships,” Mr Tanoh said. “This initiative has the potential to transform agriculture, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and technology, positioning Ghana as a hub for both regional and global trade.”
UK officials also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, John Humphrey, described the UK-Ghana Trade Partnership Agreement as a tool with “immense opportunities for businesses on both sides to scale, innovate, and thrive.”
DMA Invest, which facilitated the UK business delegation, highlighted the interest of companies in infrastructure, finance, and insurance. “Some of the businesses are experts in infrastructure, financing, and insurance — companies who are here to impact and add value to the economy,” said Annika Craine, Director of Partnerships. “We look forward to seeing the impact that the partnerships, networking, and deal-making will bring.”
For the UKGCC, the event is part of its broader role in fostering private sector collaboration. Executive Director Adjoba Kyiamah said: “This forum is incredibly important to us at the UKGCC because our work is centred on engaging with both the Ghana and UK governments on behalf of our member companies. Both governments are pursuing robust growth strategies, and these align perfectly with the interests of our member businesses.”
She explained that the forum provides a practical platform for engagement that could generate tangible business deals. “As part of the global network of British Chambers of Commerce, we provide a vital platform for our members to connect, collaborate, and thrive. We actively advocate for a business-friendly environment both in Ghana and the UK, and we are committed to doing everything we can to support the success and sustainability of our member businesses.”
The first day concluded with business delegations meeting with the Ministries of Finance; Trade, Agribusiness & Industry; and Food and Agriculture to further explore opportunities for collaboration.