Switzerland has become Ghana’s top export partner; in 2023, exports to Switzerland will amount to $3 billion. Between 2019 and 2023, the two nations’ bilateral trade volumes increased significantly, from $1.5 billion to nearly $3 billion. This accomplishment was emphasised by Switzerland’s ambassador to Ghana, Simone Giger, at a reception honouring the country’s 733rd anniversary of foundation.
She mentioned that, after South Africa, Ghana continues to be Switzerland’s second-biggest trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa. Switzerland honours the establishments that have supported its democracy and prosperity since the country’s constitution was adopted in 1848 on its National Day. A prestigious group of high-ranking officials, including ambassadors, government representatives, chiefs, and executives of Swiss companies, as well as the Swiss community in Ghana, came together for the formal diplomatic welcome.
According to Ambassador Giger, the continuous development collaboration between Ghana and Switzerland is evidence of the two nations’ strong trade and commercial relations. She stated that Switzerland would cooperate with its Ghanaian partners in a number of sectors related to promoting inclusive development under the new framework for collaboration with Ghana, which runs from 2025 to 2028.
She mentioned that Switzerland, in close collaboration with the business sector, aims to bolster key value chains, fund youth skill development, facilitate efficient decentralisation, including measures for accountability from the bottom up, and expand the use of renewable energy sources. Ghana has established itself as a safe, secure, and welcoming home for foreign investors, businesses, expatriates, and visitors who are making various contributions to the nation’s socioeconomic development, according to Mr. Francis Asenso-Boakye, the Minister of Roads and Highways, speaking on behalf of the government.
He stated that over 55 Swiss companies had invested in Ghana, including Nestlé (GH) Ltd, Accra Brewery, SGS Ghana, Panalpina (GH) Ltd, Devag Ltd, Ghana Pioneer Aluminum Factory, Ghana Industrial Containers Ltd, Barry Callebaut, and Blue Skies. These companies were drawn to Ghana because of the country’s democratic credentials, peaceful political environment, security, and favourable investment conditions. The Minister, who is also a member of parliament for Bantama, claimed that increased foreign direct investment has bolstered Ghana’s economic growth as political stability has long been a key component of the country’s appeal as an investment destination.
He said it was satisfying to restate that Ghana strongly valued its economic links with Switzerland and that it was one of the few nations with a trade balance in Ghana’s favour, especially considering the $3 billion in trade volumes in 2023. According to Mr. Asenso-Boakye, Ghana has grown more appealing as a location for foreign direct investment since the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) went into effect.
SOURCE: https://dew360.net
Join our WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakDz4u9RZATWh53yC1a
