NTFC Reconstitutes Trade and Gender Sub-Committee to Promote Inclusive Trade

The National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) in Ghana has re-established its Trade and Gender Sub-Committee, a 15-member body dedicated to promoting gender-responsive and inclusive trade. This move aims to tackle the unique needs of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and other economically vulnerable groups participating in trade and agribusiness.

Inaugurated during the NTFC's second meeting of the year on September 16, 2026, in Accra, the sub-committee now operates under the leadership of Mrs. Monica Josiah, who succeeded Mrs. Naa Densua Aryeetey as its chairperson.

The committee's formation is a response to efforts outlined in the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, Article 23.2, which mandates public and private sector stakeholders to enhance Ghana's trade environment. The NTFC, established pursuant to this agreement, brings together diverse stakeholders to refine the country’s trade policies and practices.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Mr. Ebo Quaison, highlighted how Ghana’s leadership in addressing non-tariff barriers positions it as a regional and global advocate for trade reform.

During the inauguration, the committee reviewed progress on developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the import and export of perishable goods and considered actions related to the implementation of the Customs Time Release Study. TradeMark Africa (TMA), a key partner in the NTFC's mission, reaffirmed its commitment to Ghana’s trade facilitation agenda.

Ing. Kwamina Ekremet, acting regional director for Anglophone West Africa, highlighted that TMA will allocate resources in the 2026/2027 financial year to support critical NTFC priorities, focusing on practical reforms such as the development of SOPs for perishable goods, the implementation of Customs Time Release Study recommendations, and the advancement of the Trade Information Portal.