Trade Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare Leads Global Trade Push and Industrial Transformation for Ghana

Ghana is intensifying its efforts to bolster industrial self-sufficiency and international trade presence through a series of high-level initiatives. Led by Minister for Trade Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, the government is coordinating a massive "Made-in-Ghana" trade exhibition in the United States to coincide with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while simultaneously pushing for a structural overhaul of the domestic cement industry to reduce reliance on imported raw materials. These moves, supported by international grants and sustainable development partnerships, signal a strategic pivot toward export-led growth and localized production.

The "Made-in-Ghana FIFA World Cup 2026 Expo," organized by Litina Travel and Tours in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, is set to take place in Boston on June 22-23, 2026. This strategic business event is timed to leverage the global spotlight of Ghana’s World Cup match against England. It aims to connect Ghanaian manufacturers across the food, fashion, pharmaceutical, and financial sectors with international buyers and the Ghanaian diaspora. Ambassador to the US, Victor Emmanuel Smith, and other dignitaries will join the Minister to facilitate networking sessions designed to secure new export opportunities and foster long-term trade links with American firms.

Domestically, the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers, Ghana (COCMAG) is advocating for a fundamental transformation to insulate the building industry from global market volatility. COCMAG spokesperson Mr. Albrecht emphasized that reducing clinker imports is essential due to rising costs driven by geopolitical tensions and fuel price fluctuations. The Chamber is working on a three-year plan to transition toward alternative production systems that utilize local materials. Major industry players like Ghacem and CBI are already pioneering products with reduced clinker content, a move Minister Ofosu-Adjare supports as a vital step toward industrial sustainability and economic independence.

These industrial shifts are being reinforced by significant international support for sustainable business practices. The Government of Denmark has awarded a $500,000 grant through the Sustainable African Value Chain Initiative (SAVI), a partnership between the Association of Ghana Industries and the Confederation of Danish Industry. This funding will assist over 250 local companies in aligning with global ESG standards, decarbonization, and water efficiency. Parallel to this, Eni Ghana has signed a Letter of Intent with the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) to advance inclusive development in education, agriculture, and health, aligning local operations with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Together, these initiatives reflect a comprehensive strategy to modernize Ghana’s economy. By combining aggressive international market entry with the adoption of sustainable manufacturing technologies at home, Ghana is positioning itself to become more resilient against global shocks. The success of the 2026 Boston Expo and the transition toward clinker-independent cement production will serve as critical benchmarks for the country’s progress in achieving a more balanced trade profile and a more robust, self-reliant industrial sector.