Moscow:President John Dramani Mahama has extended an open invitation to Russian businesses and investors to collaborate with their Ghanaian counterparts across eight strategic sectors of the economy.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama made this appeal during his address at the Russia-Africa Forum in Moscow. He emphasized the importance of joint ventures, local expertise, and balanced trade between the two nations.
President Mahama identified agro-processing, fertilizer production, agricultural machinery, pharmaceuticals, energy, transport infrastructure, and the digital economy as priority areas for Russian-Ghanaian partnerships. He called for the removal of practical barriers to facilitate lasting commercial relationships. Ghana offers investment opportunities in cocoa, cashew, shell nuts, horticulture, mineral processing, and manufacturing, supported by strategic positioning and institutional infrastructure.
As the host of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, Ghana is well-positioned to support businesses seeking opportunities across the continent. President Mahama highlighted the need for joint ventures to develop local expertise and improve market access for African products in Russia. He advocated for better market information, predictable standards, and stronger logistics to enhance trade.
For a seamless trade and investment environment, President Mahama urged the use of local currencies and digital payment systems. He stressed the importance of collaboration in agriculture and food security, leveraging Russia's expertise in fertilizer production and agricultural machinery. Initiatives like soil mapping and precision agriculture can guide planting and input applications, helping farmers make informed decisions.
Technology should enable cost-effective and productive farming practices, President Mahama stated, emphasizing that investments in local production and blending can bolster resilience in the agricultural sector.