By Morkporkpor Anku
Accra, April 22, GNA – The second edition of GhanaFest Europe 2026 Trade and Cultural Expo has been launched in Accra to promote non-traditional exports, tourism, and investment partnerships between Ghana and the Netherlands.
The three-day event, scheduled for September 10 to 12, 2026, will take place at the World Trade Centre in Amsterdam under the theme: “Value Addition and Sustainable Partnerships: Shaping the Future of Ghana-Netherlands Trade.”
The Expo is being organised by the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) in partnership with RAM Media Concepts.
Mr. Frederick Adu Amoakoh, Operations Manager of GNCCI, stated that the event would serve as a strategic platform to promote Ghana’s non-traditional exports to the European market, with the Netherlands as a key gateway.
He noted that the Expo would provide an opportunity for Ghanaian businesses to showcase products such as textiles, garments, and artefacts to the diaspora and international buyers while facilitating direct trade engagements.
“Participation will be limited to credible and export-ready businesses capable of meeting international standards and fulfilling orders from global markets,” he said.
Mr. Amoakoh also explained that the initiative was part of efforts to expand Ghana’s export base beyond traditional commodities, positioning locally manufactured goods competitively on the global stage.
He expressed confidence that the 2026 edition would build on the success of the inaugural event, delivering tangible results in terms of business partnerships, export growth, and job creation.
Mr. Amoakoh called on stakeholders, including businesses, investors, and policymakers, to take advantage of the platform to forge sustainable partnerships and drive Ghana’s economic transformation.
Mr. Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority, described the Expo as a convergence of trade, tourism, culture, and investment, highlighting Ghana as one of Africa’s fastest-growing tourism destinations.
He pointed out that policy interventions and flagship initiatives were enhancing visitor experiences, contributing to global recognition and export growth.
“Tourism plays a vital role in promoting non-traditional exports, as visitors experience Ghanaian products and culture, creating pathways for international demand,” he said.
Mr. Aggrey said that the decision to host the event in the Netherlands was strategic due to its role as a key gateway to the European Union market and its strong Ghanaian diaspora presence.
He reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to supporting GhanaFest Europe, adding that the event aligned with efforts to position Ghana as a top destination for tourism, trade, and investment.
Mr. Aggrey noted that the Expo would strengthen cultural diplomacy by showcasing Ghana’s heritage, creative arts, and hospitality to a global audience.
Mr. Charles Opoku Mensah, a representative from the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC), emphasised that the Expo was a strategic bridge linking Ghanaian businesses to international markets and investors, particularly in value addition, agribusiness, manufacturing, and the creative economy.
He highlighted Ghana’s stable economic environment, strategic location, and investment-friendly policies as key factors that make the country an attractive destination for global investors.
Mr. Mensah explained that GIPC’s role extended beyond promotion, as it actively supported investors through aftercare services and mechanisms designed to address operational challenges and ensure a conducive business environment.
He urged Ghanaian businesses to present investment-ready projects at the Expo and encouraged international partners to take advantage of Ghana’s growing opportunities.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey