The World Bank has urged Ghana to position itself as a stronger regional and global trade player despite mounting uncertainty in the global trading system driven by supply chain disruptions and rising trade fragmentation.
Speaking during the 2026 Seminar Series in Accra, World Bank Regional Director, Seynabou Sakho, said Ghana still has significant opportunities to expand trade, strengthen export competitiveness and deepen regional value chains under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
According to her, shifting global supply chains and increasing geopolitical uncertainty are reshaping international trade patterns, creating both risks and opportunities for developing economies.
“If you think about the global trading system, it’s becoming more uncertain and more fragmented,” she said, adding that countries are increasingly reconsidering industrial policy, food security, technology and market access strategies.
AfCFTA Seen as Key Growth Opportunity
Despite the challenges, the World Bank believes Ghana is strategically positioned to benefit from deeper continental integration through AfCFTA.
Ms. Sakho noted that Ghana’s role in regional and global trade continues to expand, describing the country as an important trading economy within Africa and beyond.
“Whenever you have risk, the other pendant is opportunities. And you should never let the risk prevent you from seizing on the opportunities,” she stated.
She further stressed that expanding trade remains one of the most effective ways to create jobs, improve productivity and support long-term economic transformation.
“So this is a priority area for the World Bank Group, because trade expansion remains one of the most powerful channels for creating jobs, raising productivity and supporting structural transformation.” - World Bank Regional Director
Export Diversification Critical
The World Bank also encouraged Ghana to accelerate efforts toward export diversification while building stronger regional value chains across Africa.
According to Ms. Sakho, the AfCFTA framework provides Ghana with a major opportunity to expand industrial activity, improve competitiveness and strengthen regional market access.
“Ghana can also take advantage of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement by building regional value chains and strengthening progress in a more diversified export sector.” - World Bank Regional Director
Her comments come at a time when African economies are increasingly seeking new growth pathways amid slowing global demand, tighter financial conditions and growing trade competition worldwide.
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