Nana Ama Dokua Asiamah-Adjei, Deputy Minister for Trade and Industry, has commended the Compete Ghana Programme for its role in promoting innovation, enhancing competitiveness, and fostering a conducive business environment.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the significant achievements and progress made in various sectors through the collaboration between Ghanaian and European Union (EU) enterprises and investors.
During the closing ceremony of the Compete Ghana Programme under the Ghana-EU interim Economic Partnership Agreement (iEPA) in Accra, Madam Asiamah-Adjei expressed satisfaction with the impactful initiative.
She emphasized the success of the partnership in transferring knowledge and skills, resulting in mutually beneficial collaborations.
“The programme has revealed the impact of empowering businesses, encouraging and promoting entrepreneurship, and facilitating cross-border cooperation,” Madam Asiamah-Adjei stressed.
The Compete Ghana Programme, funded by the EU, aims to improve economic governance and the business environment, maximizing the benefits of the iEPA for Ghana.
The Deputy Minister highlighted the strengthened economic ties between Ghana and the EU, underlining the lasting relationships and partnerships forged through the initiative.
Mr Irchad Razaaly, EU Ambassador to Ghana, noted the positive impact of the iEPA since its inception in 2016. He highlighted the legal cementing of Ghana's duty-free and quota-free access to the EU market, fostering stability and predictability for economic operators.
“Over the last decade, trade flows have both increased and diversified, from raw materials to increasingly processed products. The potential of this Agreement is unmistakable, and its opportunities are concrete,” said Mr Razaaly.
Mr Nicholas Gebara, Team Lead of the Compete Ghana Programme, emphasized the capacity building of public and private institutions and agencies.
He acknowledged the challenge faced by Ghanaian exporters in meeting larger orders from the EU, encouraging more collaborations within the private sector.
“The Ministry of Trade and Industry has an advisory council and technical working groups working on coordination among different institutions to continue providing guidance and developing business-friendly policies,” Mr Gebara added.
