In a major move to boost trade relations between Ghana and Cote D’Ivoire, the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) has announced plans to collaborate with Ghanaians living in Ivory Coast to establish a Ghana-Côte d’Ivoire Chamber of Commerce.
The initiative aims to streamline business activities and strengthen economic ties between the two neighboring nations.
The Ghana National Chamber of Commerce has revealed that this new partnership will create a structured platform for Ghanaian entrepreneurs and investors in Cote D’Ivoire, facilitating smoother trade, investment, and regulatory compliance.
According to the President of GNCCI, Stephan Abbas Miezan, the move is part of efforts to harness the potential of cross-border trade and improve business relations between two countries.
“As a chamber, our primary role is advocacy. Given that our members reside in a foreign country, they must navigate local rules and regulations. The chamber will mediate on their behalf, ensuring their interests are represented. We’ll also focus on capacity building, equipping the new leadership with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed.
This includes guidance on promoting their businesses effectively to the local community and customers. We’re planning to announce a specific date for the official inauguration of the Ghana-Ivory Coast Chamber of Commerce.” He said.
The Ghana-Côte d’Ivoire Chamber of Commerce will bridge gaps between the two nations, tackling challenges like customs procedures, taxation, and market access while promoting Ghanaian products and services in Ivorian markets.
This initiative is poised to boost bilateral trade and investment, benefiting businesses expanding in West Africa. Ghanaian business leaders in Cote D’Ivoire welcomed the move, anticipating reduced bureaucracy and increased investment flows.
Nana Kyeremaa Abrefi Koto is ECOWAS Queen mother and Queen mother of Ghanaian community in Cote D’Ivoire.
“Many Ghanaian businesses face challenges in Côte d’Ivoire, particularly with import and export activities. We’re working on documentation to address these issues and hope the Ghana-Côte d’Ivoire Chamber of Commerce will provide support.
Our colleagues in the import-export sector struggle with border restrictions, such as ban on rice and maize. Given the sisterly relationship between our countries, we believe these restrictions should be revisited. We look forward to collaborative solutions through the chamber.” She stated.
With both countries being key players in West Africa’s economic bloc, ECOWAS, this collaboration is expected to enhance regional integration and boost intra-African trade.
