Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare woos British traders with financial ‘reset’ enterprise development – Life Pulse Daily
Editor-in-chiefJanuary 31, 20264 Mins read44
Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare Woos British Traders with Financial ‘Reset’ Enterprise Development
Introduction
Ghana’s Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has launched an ambitious campaign to attract British investors by showcasing the nation’s remarkable economic turnaround and business-friendly reforms. At a high-profile reception honoring the British International Investment (BII) Board of Directors in January 2026, the Minister presented Ghana as Africa’s premier investment destination, highlighting dramatic improvements in macroeconomic stability and positioning the country as the gateway to the $3.4 trillion African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Key Points
- Ghana's economy grew by 5.5% in Q3 2025, marking the strongest performance in five years
- Inflation dropped from 54% in December 2022 to just 5.4% by December 2025
- The Ghana Cedi emerged as Africa's best-performing currency in 2025
- Bilateral trade between Ghana and UK reached £1.5 billion by mid-2025
- UK exports to Ghana increased by 22.1% year-on-year
- Major fiscal reforms introduced in the 2026 National Budget to attract foreign investment
Background
Ghana has undergone a significant economic transformation under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. The “reset” agenda has moved from concept to measurable impact, with structural reforms taking root across various sectors. This transformation comes after years of economic challenges, including high inflation and currency instability that had previously deterred foreign investment.
The country’s democratic stability has been a cornerstone of its appeal to international investors. As one of Africa’s most stable democracies with a proven record of peaceful transitions, Ghana offers the predictability and governance standards that sophisticated investors seek. The Ghana-UK Trade Partnership Agreement has further strengthened bilateral ties, creating a framework for increased commerce and investment flows.
Analysis
The Minister’s presentation strategically positions Ghana at a critical juncture in its economic development. By emphasizing the dramatic reduction in inflation from 54% to 5.4% within three years, she addresses one of the primary concerns that typically deter foreign investment in emerging markets. This level of price stability signals to investors that Ghana has achieved macroeconomic credibility.
The Cedi’s emergence as Africa’s best-performing currency represents more than just a statistical achievement; it demonstrates restored investor confidence and effective monetary policy management. For British traders specifically, this currency stability reduces exchange rate risk, a crucial consideration for cross-border investments.
The timing of this investment drive is particularly strategic. With the AfCFTA creating the world’s largest free trade area, Ghana’s geographic position and existing trade infrastructure make it an ideal hub for companies seeking continental expansion. The Minister’s emphasis on Ghana as the “undisputed gateway” to AfCFTA markets directly appeals to British companies looking to establish a foothold in Africa.
Practical Advice for British Investors
For British traders considering investment opportunities in Ghana, several practical considerations emerge from the Minister’s presentation:
**Sector Focus**: The government is particularly interested in attracting investment in pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and automotive manufacturing. These sectors align with both Ghana’s development priorities and global investment trends.
**Fiscal Incentives**: The 2026 National Budget introduces several attractive measures:
– Complete abolition of VAT on mineral reconnaissance and prospecting
– Extended zero-rated VAT for locally manufactured textiles until 2028
– Digital VAT tracking systems to ensure transparency
– Customs and licensing reforms to reduce bureaucratic delays
**Partnership Approach**: The Minister emphasized “stability, transparency and partnership” as core values. British investors should prepare for collaborative engagement with Ghanaian authorities rather than purely transactional relationships.
**Supply Chain Integration**: There’s a clear invitation to build integrated supply chains that combine Ghanaian resources with British technological expertise, particularly in processed goods like cocoa paste and fish products.
FAQ
**What makes Ghana particularly attractive to British investors compared to other African countries?**
Ghana offers a unique combination of political stability, English language proficiency, strong legal frameworks inherited from British colonial administration, and strategic location within the AfCFTA. The recent economic reforms have addressed historical concerns about inflation and currency volatility.
**How significant is the Ghana-UK Trade Partnership Agreement?**
The agreement has already delivered measurable results, with bilateral trade reaching £1.5 billion by mid-2025, representing a 5.7% increase year-on-year. UK exports to Ghana grew by over 22%, while Ghanaian exports to the UK remained strong at £640 million.
**What specific reforms has Ghana implemented to improve the business environment?**
Key reforms include digital VAT monitoring systems, fiscal electronic devices for transparency, customs organization improvements, and enterprise licensing reforms to reduce “red tape.” The government has also introduced sector-specific incentives in mining and textiles.
**When and where will the Ghana Investment Forum take place?**
The Minister announced that a major Ghana Investment Forum will be held in London later in 2026. This event will provide a dedicated platform for British investors to engage directly with Ghanaian officials and potential partners.
**What risks should British investors be aware of when investing in Ghana?**
While the economic outlook is positive, investors should still conduct thorough due diligence on local partnerships, understand regulatory requirements, and consider currency exposure despite recent stability. Working with experienced local advisors is recommended.
Conclusion
Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare’s strategic outreach to British traders represents a pivotal moment in Ghana’s economic development. By combining impressive macroeconomic achievements with targeted fiscal incentives and a clear vision for partnership, Ghana is positioning itself as the investment destination of choice for British businesses seeking African opportunities.
The transformation from economic challenges to becoming Africa’s best-performing currency, coupled with the strategic advantages of AfCFTA membership, creates a compelling investment proposition. The upcoming Ghana Investment Forum in London will likely serve as a catalyst for turning these diplomatic overtures into concrete business relationships and joint ventures.
For British traders, Ghana offers not just investment opportunities but the chance to be part of a broader economic renaissance in West Africa. The emphasis on building supply chains that reflect both Ghanaian resilience and UK innovation suggests a partnership model that goes beyond traditional investment relationships, promising sustainable and mutually beneficial economic cooperation.
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