Ato Forson calls for more value-added trade with China

Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has urged a transformation in Ghana's trade relationship with China, aiming for increased local processing, manufacturing, and job creation. At the opening of the Fifth Session of the Ghana–China Joint Commission, Dr Forson highlighted that while China is Ghana's largest trading partner, the current trade structure requires enhancement.

"China is now Ghana's largest trading partner, but the structure must improve," he asserted. The minister emphasized Ghana's focus on processing more of its raw materials locally and boosting exports of processed cocoa and other value-added goods to China. "We seek investments that build processing plants and manufacturing lines, transfer technology, procure from Ghanaian businesses, train our people and create sustainable jobs," Dr Forson insisted.

He stressed that the economic partnership with China must create better opportunities for local businesses, workers, and the broader economy. Zhang Li, China's Assistant Minister for Commerce, visiting Ghana for the first time, praised Dr Forson and the government for Ghana's recent economic progress. Zhang expressed China's commitment to strengthening economic and commercial cooperation with Ghana, including backing the government's Big Push Programme and other key initiatives.