A Ghanaian company, Karima Shipping Enterprise, has been adjudged Best Small Business Exporter of the Year in New York for 2015.

The feat achieved by the company from a field of over 50 other firms in America makes it the first African- owned entity to ever win such honour.

The annual awards is organized by the United States Small Business Administration to reward small businesses contributing to the United States economy.

Though the company lost out in the national awards as representative of the New York Province, officials are satisfied the recognition make a case and creates space for Ghanaian businesses in the United States.

Chief Executive Officer for Karima Shipping Enterprise, Mohammed Amin Usman, explains the award criteria give prominence to how businesses impact on others to stay afloat.

He says the award is already opening more business opportunities for the company.

“Since we won this award, a lot of companies have been contacting us.

They want to do business with us, they are trying to send cars to Africa and they want us to ship their cars for them”. He explained.

Mr. Amin Usman who spoke to LUV Biz on phone from the US where he picked the award is optimistic the opportunities will propel the company to move a step ahead from its present state.

 “It’s going to encourage Ghanaians around the globe, and those in Europe to do their best. It tells you that, when you come over here, it doesn’t matter your background you must do your best and your best will be appreciated”. Mr. Amin explained.

For small businesses operating in Europe, he advised that they should not be deterred by taxes.

“I have realised we fear taxes. Don’t be afraid of taxes because if you are afraid of taxes you can’t do business, pay it as a normal business or citizen and do your best”, he advocated.

With a head office in Kumasi, Karima Shipping Enterprise began import and export operations in 2012, providing employment for Ghanaians both in Ghana and in the United States.