GEPA Strengthens Trade and Investment Collaboration with Italy

The Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) has taken another strategic step to deepen Ghana–Italy trade relations following a high-level meeting between the Chief Executive Officer of GEPA, Francis Kojo Kwarteng Arthur and the Italian Ambassador, Her Excellency, Laura Ranalli.

The meeting provided an opportunity for both parties to reflect on the successful collaboration during Macfrut and to explore new areas for enhanced cooperation.

GEPA expressed its appreciation for the continued support and professionalism of the Italian Embassy and reiterated its commitment to strengthening institutional partnerships that advance Ghana’s export agenda.

Discussions focused on expanding opportunities for Ghanaian exporters within the Italian market, particularly in the areas of packaging, processed goods, and access to Italy’s clothing and textile value chains. The engagement also highlighted the importance of capacity building for exporters, including training on packaging standards and market requirements to enhance competitiveness and acceptance in the European market.

Both parties emphasized the potential for increased collaboration in knowledge and technology exchange, especially in packaging and value addition. The meeting further explored opportunities to attract Italian investments into Ghana, including the establishment of packaging and processing facilities to support local production and boost export readiness.

In addition, the engagement addressed broader diplomatic and procedural matters aimed at strengthening cooperation and ensuring smoother participation in trade missions and international exhibitions. Italy’s strong reputation in trade fair organization was highlighted as a valuable opportunity for Ghanaian exporters to gain greater exposure to international markets.

The Italian Ambassador and her Deputy reaffirmed the Embassy’s openness to working closely with GEPA and expressed optimism about the growing interest of Italian businesses in Ghana. Both sides concluded the meeting with a shared commitment to continued dialogue and collaboration in support of sustainable trade, investment, and industrial growth.