The CEO of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Dr. Afua Asabea Asare, has announced that the agency has successfully diversified Ghana’s export portfolio beyond traditional products like cocoa beans and timber.
“Currently, the Non-Traditional Exports (NTEs) sector includes a variety of products from agribusiness, manufacturing, arts and crafts, and services,” she stated.
Dr. Asare highlighted that in 2023, GEPA achieved remarkable growth in the NTE sector, with earnings reaching $3.944 billion—an 11.75% increase from 2022. Key contributors to this success include iron and steel, cocoa paste, cashew nuts, and shea oil, with iron and steel leading the way at $447.8 million.
She noted that the ongoing growth of the sector is driven by strategic initiatives focused on capacity building and market development.
“GEPA has rolled out programs to enhance product development, market intelligence, and research, ensuring exporters have the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive globally,” she explained.
Among these initiatives is the “Youth in Export” program, aimed at engaging young people in the export business.
“This program offers hands-on training, mentorship, and capacity building, emphasizing practical learning to prepare participants for success as exporters,” Dr. Asare said.
She further reported that the first two cohorts of the program have already created over 500 jobs, with plans for a third cohort expected to generate more than 4,000 direct employment opportunities.
Dr. Asare also emphasized GEPA’s commitment to supporting women in export. The agency is implementing a range of women-focused projects designed to empower female entrepreneurs and enhance their visibility in the global marketplace.
“Empowering women in export is not just about economic growth; it’s about fostering inclusive development and creating opportunities for all,” she said. “GEPA is dedicated to ensuring that Ghana’s export growth benefits all sectors of society.”
Looking ahead, Dr. Asare noted that GEPA plans to expand these programs, increase the number of women beneficiaries, and establish new partnerships to provide additional resources and opportunities for women in the export industry.
