The Managing Director of the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB), Edward Ato Sarpong, has called on manufacturing companies to take full advantage of the current conducive economic landscape to drive innovation, competitiveness, and growth in the sector.

Commenting on the 9th Ghana Manufacturing Awards recently held at the Labadi Beach Hotel, Edward Ato Sarpong highlighted the critical role of manufacturing in achieving inclusive and export-led economic transformation.

“The current economic environment presents unique opportunities for local manufacturers to innovate, expand into export markets, and deepen their value chains,” the MD noted.

He added that ADB stands ready to partner with the sector through targeted financing and technical support.

“At ADB, we view manufacturing as an essential partner. The bank has long supported diverse areas within the manufacturing industry, including apparel manufacturing. The agricultural value chain is another key area that is so dear to us as a bank,” he said.

“As a bank with a mandate to promote agribusiness, we are committed to supporting viable manufacturing ventures that drive export potential, empower SMEs, and adopt sustainable production practices.

"Our tailored financing solutions, technical partnerships, and sector-specific products are designed to help local industries grow beyond borders,” he added.

“We believe that supporting agro-processing and industrial innovation is key to reducing post-harvest losses, increasing export earnings, and strengthening food security,” he further stated.

Edward Ato Sarpong also called for effective collaborations with government, policymakers, and other key stakeholders and consistent investment in skills development, infrastructure, and technology to fully unlock Ghana’s manufacturing potential.

The country has witnessed significant appreciation of its currency (the Cedi) recently, with other government policies such as the Big Push expected to catalyze to facilitate national development. ADB plays a key financial intermediation role in the economic development of Ghana.