Government is forecasting a stronger performance for Ghana’s trade and industrial sector in 2026, building on policy reforms and regulatory interventions implemented over the past year.

The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, says 2025 served as a stabilisation period aimed at resetting the sector after inheriting difficult economic conditions.

According to the minister, her outfit prioritised extensive engagement with industry and agribusiness players to better understand operational challenges and remove constraints affecting productivity and competitiveness.

These consultations, she noted, have helped shape practical solutions to improve the overall business environment.

One of the most notable policy changes introduced in 2025 was the extension of the repatriation period for export proceeds from 60 days to 120 days.

Mrs Ofosu-Adjare explained that the decision was informed by concerns raised by exporters over cash flow pressures and compliance difficulties under the previous arrangement.

The minister said the extended repatriation window is expected to ease financial strain on exporters, enhance compliance levels, and boost Ghana’s competitiveness in regional and international markets, particularly for manufacturers and agribusiness firms.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the Ministry’s carol service, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare expressed optimism about the outlook for the sector.

“It has been a good year at the Ministry of Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, even though what we inherited wasn’t the best. We have begun the reset agenda, and it has started very well. We engaged industry players, addressed their concerns, and the most significant intervention was extending the repatriation period from 60 to 120 days,” she said.