India and Ghana Lay Groundwork for Deeper Economic Partnership
Long before actors in the business space gather around conference tables and trade statistics are put under review, a quieter but more decisive process is already taking shape.
In Accra, boardrooms and conference halls are doubling as strategy rooms, where investors sound out opportunities, policymakers exchange ideas, and businesses begin positioning for the next phase of India–Ghana economic relations.
The recent India–Ghana Business Conclave captured this moment. Far from a routine diplomatic event, it signalled that the groundwork for reshaping bilateral trade is being laid well ahead of formal negotiations.
Held under the theme “Expanding India–Ghana Business Synergies for Inclusive Growth,” the Conclave brought together senior government officials, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors from both countries. Organisers were clear about its purpose: this was not just a forum for discussion, but a strategic prelude to upcoming trade talks, aimed at aligning business priorities and translating policy ambition into practical opportunities.
Trade on an Upward Trajectory
India’s High Commissioner to Ghana, Manish Gupta, used the platform to highlight the growing momentum behind the partnership. Bilateral trade, he noted, had already crossed US$3.25 billion in the first half of the 2025–26 financial year, placing both countries firmly on track for a record performance.
“With more than 818 registered Indian projects in Ghana valued at US$1.92 billion, India remains one of Ghana’s leading investors,” Mr Gupta said. He pointed to the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Partnership during India’s Prime Ministerial visit to Ghana in July 2025 as a clear signal of shared commitment to doubling trade within five years.
Beyond trade figures, Mr Gupta reaffirmed India’s support for Ghana’s broader development agenda, including scholarships, capacity-building programmes, and investment in priority sectors aligned with the Reset Ghana programme. That national strategy focuses on macroeconomic stability, job creation, and strategic infrastructure development.
“The Government of India generously supports scholarships and capacity-building programmes across various sectors of Ghana’s economy,” he added.
The 24HR+ Economy: A New Frontier
The Conclave also spotlighted Ghana’s ambition to unlock growth through its flagship 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development initiative. Mr Gupta reiterated India’s readiness to work closely with Ghana in advancing the Reset Ghana agenda, particularly its emphasis on round-the-clock economic activity, job creation, and infrastructure expansion under the “Big Push” initiative.
He encouraged businesses from both countries to look beyond traditional areas of cooperation and explore innovative investment avenues emerging from Ghana’s evolving economic strategy.
A key highlight was a detailed presentation on the 24-Hour Economy initiative, which aims to boost productivity, expand exports, and create new industrial and logistics hubs. Presidential Advisor on the 24-Hour Economy and Accelerated Export Development, Augustus Goosie Tannoh, stressed the critical role Indian investment could play in turning the vision into reality. He urged companies to explore opportunities in production facilities, contract manufacturing, logistics, and priority sectors such as agribusiness, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, ICT, infrastructure, and small and medium-sized enterprises.
Mr Arnold Parker, Lead of Fund 24, complemented this with an overview of the programme’s financing and operational framework, outlining the breadth of opportunities available to businesses ready to participate in Ghana’s new economic push.
Bridging Policy and Practice
Bringing policy closer to execution, the Conclave featured a panel discussion that examined the practical realities of doing business across borders. Experts from the Ghana Revenue Authority, PwC Ghana, Pharmanova, Olam Agri Ghana, and seasoned entrepreneur Austin Okere shared insights on taxation, logistics, and regulatory considerations—issues that often determine whether investment intentions translate into viable projects.
The event concluded with an interactive networking session that facilitated business matchmaking and partnership discussions. More than 100 participants, representing leading business chambers and key sectors, expressed confidence that the Conclave had opened new pathways to diversify and deepen trade and investment ties between Ghana and India.
Looking Ahead
By hosting its second Business Conclave in 2025, India and Ghana have moved their engagement beyond dialogue towards actionable collaboration. With the India–Ghana Joint Trade Committee meeting on the horizon, both countries appear poised to convert momentum into measurable outcomes—advancing inclusive growth while working towards the ambitious goal of doubling bilateral trade within five years.
