Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has urged the Ghana Export-Import Bank (GEXIM) to intensify efforts to support value addition, industrial production, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to strengthen Ghana’s export competitiveness.

She made the call at the GEXIM@10 International Conference held in Accra on March 25, 2026, marking a decade of the Bank’s operations.

The conference, held under the theme “A Decade of Enabling Export Trade and Industrial Transformation: Resetting GEXIM for the Next Frontier,” forms part of activities to review progress and reposition the institution for the future.

The Vice President noted that while Ghana has made progress in export development, the country must shift from exporting raw materials to producing value-added goods.

She explained that evolving global trade dynamics require stronger institutions, expanded export financing, and deliberate policies that move Ghana higher up the value chain.

Her remarks align with broader national and continental calls to prioritise industrialisation and reduce dependency on primary commodity exports.

Government Emphasises Role of MSMEs

The Vice President highlighted the importance of MSMEs in driving export growth and job creation. She urged GEXIM to deepen its support for small businesses by improving access to finance, building capacity, and creating opportunities for participation in international trade.

Experts note that although MSMEs contribute significantly to employment, their participation in export trade remains limited, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.

Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Sampson Ahi, described the conference as a “working session” focused on delivering actionable outcomes.

He stressed the need for practical and time-bound solutions to challenges such as access to finance, compliance costs, and export readiness. He added that addressing these constraints is essential for enabling Ghanaian businesses to compete effectively in global markets.

GEXIM Highlights Progress and Strategic Shift

Chief Executive of GEXIM, Sylvester Adinam Mensah, outlined the Bank’s achievements over the past decade, including its role in supporting export diversification and industrial growth.

He noted that the Bank has helped businesses expand production, improve quality, and access new markets through financing, guarantees, and technical assistance.

However, he emphasised the need for a more focused and results-driven strategy moving forward, anchored on sector prioritisation, MSME development, and expanded trade finance instruments.

The conference also reflects GEXIM’s broader mandate to help Ghana transition from raw material exports to value-added production and globally competitive industries.

Day one of the conference featured high-level discussions on how export-import banks can drive national trade competitiveness. Participants explored the evolving role of development finance institutions in Africa and examined strategies for strengthening export systems.

A fireside chat with the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Johnson Asiamah, focused on exchange rate stability and its impact on export competitiveness, highlighting the importance of policy coordination and market confidence.

Conference Explores Innovation and Trade Finance

Further discussions at the conference examined ways to unlock MSME export potential through innovative financing tools. Participants highlighted the need for improved collateral systems, credit guarantees, and risk mitigation mechanisms to support exporters.

A keynote session also emphasised the growing role of digital technology and artificial intelligence in transforming export finance and improving efficiency in trade systems. These discussions reflect global trends where technology is increasingly shaping trade and financial systems.

The conference is expected to produce actionable recommendations to guide GEXIM’s next phase of operations. Stakeholders aim to strengthen Ghana’s transition toward a more resilient, export-led economy by aligning policy, finance, and industry.

GEXIM’s 10th anniversary marks both a milestone and a turning point, as the institution seeks to adapt to changing global trade dynamics and deepen its impact on national development.

As Ghana looks ahead, the focus remains on building competitive industries, expanding exports, and creating sustainable jobs through strategic investment and collaboration.