Ghana and China are on the brink of a major trade breakthrough as both nations prepare to sign a historic zero-tariff agreement by the end of this month. The deal, announced by Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama during the Presidential Investment Forum in Beijing, marks a significant milestone in the growing economic and diplomatic partnership between the two countries.
President Mahama revealed that discussions had reached an advanced stage, and both governments had agreed in principle to eliminate tariffs on a wide range of goods, creating new opportunities for exporters and strengthening trade relations between Ghana and China. “We have reached an agreement in principle, and we have targeted the end of October to sign onto the zero-tariff principle,” he said, commending the Chinese government for what he described as an “act of solidarity and confidence” in Ghana’s economic potential.
The agreement comes amid an impressive rise in bilateral trade between the two nations. In 2024 alone, China’s exports to Ghana increased by 46 percent, while Ghana’s exports to China grew by more than 11 percent. The proposed zero-tariff policy, expected to cover all 53 African countries, will further deepen economic cooperation and strengthen China’s long-standing commitment to Africa’s development.
According to President Mahama, the deal would open new and vast markets for Ghanaian exporters, agro-processors, and manufacturers, boosting production and job creation. “China’s decision to grant zero-tariff access to Ghanaian and African products shows the depth of confidence in our partnership. It will enable local businesses to compete more effectively in global markets,” he emphasized.
Beyond trade, the zero-tariff initiative is expected to pave the way for stronger diplomatic and economic cooperation between Africa and China. By maintaining close ties, China aims to support Africa’s industrial growth and offer a benchmark for fair and mutually beneficial trade agreements with other global partners.
During his speech, President Mahama also highlighted Ghana’s forward-looking Green Digital City Project, which forms part of the government’s broader national transformation agenda. The project envisions the creation of a modern, sustainable urban center that will span across the Greater Accra, Volta, and Eastern regions, incorporating cutting-edge technology and innovation in city design and infrastructure.
An inter-ministerial committee will be established to oversee the design and feasibility stages of the Green City initiative, while a transactional advisor will be appointed to lead technical studies and investment strategies. “This will be a green digital city that will display cutting-edge technology in urban design, planning, and innovation,” President Mahama said, adding that the first phase of the ambitious 20-year project is expected to commence before 2029.
Speaking at the event, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, praised President Mahama for his leadership and reform-driven agenda. “Since assuming office, the President has worked tirelessly to fix the challenges he inherited — from the economy to healthcare and education. Only a few days ago, he also fixed our football. Ghana has qualified for the World Cup next year,” he noted proudly.
The President was accompanied by a high-level delegation that included Trade and Agribusiness Minister Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, Roads and Highways Minister Governs Kwame Agbodza, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga, and Deputy Finance Minister Thomas Ampem Nyarko. Other key officials included Dr. Callistus Mahama, Executive Secretary to the President; Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Presidential Advisor; Stan Xoese Dogbe, Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations; Shamima Muslim, Deputy Minister for Government Communications; and Simon Madjie, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC).
The upcoming Ghana–China zero-tariff agreement represents not just a trade deal but a strategic partnership that could redefine Ghana’s economic landscape. It is expected to position the country as a gateway for African exports to the Asian market while reinforcing Ghana’s vision of sustainable, technology-driven growth.
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