As global trade tensions intensify among major economies, Ghana faces a unique opportunity to reposition itself as a leading manufacturing and export hub in Africa. Michael Kottoh, Managing Partner at Konfidants, highlighted this during the 2025 Citi Business Forum in Accra, emphasizing that Ghana can capitalize on shifting supply chains caused by tariff conflicts involving the United States, China, and the European Union.
Kottoh noted that while large economies struggle with retaliatory tariffs and disrupted trade flows, smaller nations like Ghana can benefit by attracting export contracts that other African countries such as Lesotho and South Africa may lose. He pointed out the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which covers a market of over 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion, as a critical platform for Ghana to expand its export footprint.
One promising sector is apparel and textiles, which historically has created thousands of jobs in Africa but has faced instability in traditional centers. Ghana currently exports about $40 million worth of garments annually, but experts believe this could triple within five years if the country invests in industrial parks, workforce training, and export-oriented logistics.
Kottoh stressed the need for a deliberate, data-driven export strategy that identifies high-potential products and builds resilient value chains. He also emphasized the importance of trade facilitation reforms, noting Ghana’s ranking of 100th out of 139 countries on the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index, which highlights the urgency of improving port efficiency and customs processes.
With strategic planning and investment, Ghana can leverage AfCFTA and global trade realignments to boost manufacturing growth, create jobs, and strengthen its economy. This approach aligns with national initiatives to transform Ghana into an export-driven economy, diversify production, and enhance competitiveness on the global stage.
