President John Dramani Mahama has announced a fundamental shift in the nation’s trade policy, declaring an end to the export of raw commodities in favour of local processing and value addition.
Speaking at the opening of the four-day Tree Corps Investment Fair & Exhibition in Accra on Tuesday, the President outlined a new economic direction aimed at retaining more wealth within Ghana’s borders. He argued that the longstanding practice of exporting raw cashew, shea, and unprocessed rubber—only to later import finished products at premium prices—has stifled job creation and constrained industrial growth.
“That model limits our potential,” President Mahama told stakeholders and investors gathered at the event. “We must move away from being a nation that exports raw materials and imports finished goods. By processing what we grow, we create jobs, we build industries, and we keep the value of our resources here at home.”
The President’s declaration signals a firm commitment to strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity and ensuring Ghana derives maximum economic benefit from its natural resource base. The new policy direction is expected to prioritise the expansion of exports of finished and semi-finished goods, creating skilled employment opportunities across the agricultural value chain.
The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Hon. Lawyer Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, who was present at the opening ceremony, is scheduled to address the forum on Thursday, February 19. Her presentation is highly anticipated, as she is expected to outline the concrete policy measures and practical steps the ministry will take to translate the President’s vision into action.
The Tree Corps Investment Fair & Exhibition, which runs until Friday, has brought together investors, policymakers, agribusiness players, and development partners to explore opportunities in sustainable production and processing. The President’s address has set a decisive tone for the gathering, framing it as the launchpad for a new era in Ghanaian trade policy—one focused on value creation, industrial competitiveness, and long-term economic resilience.
