Trade Minister calls for transformational China-Africa partnerships at economic expo

The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness & Industry, Mrs. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has urged Chinese investors to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which presents an unprecedented opportunity for businesses to access a market of 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion.

She stated that Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its development time of transformation, innovation, and industrial growth.

The Minister said this at the China-Africa CEO Dialogue held on the sidelines of the 4th China-Africa Economic & Trade Expo (CAETE) in Changsha.

She noted that the true potential of Africa lies not only in its resources but in its ability to process, refine, and innovate, turning raw commodities into high-value products that create jobs and drive sustainable growth.

“Let us move beyond traditional trade relationships and embrace transformational partnerships, ones that promote technology exchange, sustainable industrial practices, and globally competitive African enterprises,” she said.

Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare called for more strategic Chinese investments in Ghana as part of the Belt and Road Initiative.

She highlighted Ghana’s unique proposition, which is anchored on a peaceful business environment, the rule of law, and strategic position in the centre of the world to serve the global market.

According to her, the country continues to attract major Chinese private sector operators, and names like Zonda Sinotruk, Sunda, Keda, Sentuo, Sunon Asogli, Huawei, etc. have become household names.

She therefore called on other potential Chinese investors to take advantage of the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy.

The Dialogue attracted more than 500 high-level officials from government departments, CEOs of government agencies, CEOs of multinational companies, international organizations, the Africa Chamber of Commerce, Business Associations & Enterprises, financial institutions, and representatives from the China Africa Development Fund (CADFund).