Ghana is making a fresh push to deepen trade and investment ties with Switzerland as the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry addressed the Fourth Swiss Business Lunch of 2025 in Accra. The engagement brought together leaders from the Swiss business community, investors, diplomats and government officials.
In her address, the Minister applauded Swiss Ambassador Simone Giger and the more than 70 Swiss companies operating in Ghana, commending their contribution to job creation and national development. She noted that Ghana–Swiss relations, which date back to the Basel Mission’s introduction of cocoa in 1828, have evolved into one of the strongest bilateral trade partnerships in Africa.
Bilateral trade between the two countries reached USD 4.35 billion in 2024, making Ghana Switzerland’s top trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Highlighting recent economic gains, the Minister announced that Ghana has made significant progress in stabilising its economy. Inflation has fallen to about 8 percent, the cedi is the best-performing currency in Africa in 2025, and GDP growth surged to 6.3 percent in the second quarter of the year. These improvements, she said, have strengthened investor confidence and earned Ghana ratings upgrades from major global agencies.
The Minister further outlined key tax reforms—such as the abolition of the COVID-19 levy and reductions in VAT—which are expected to return GH¢5.7 billion to businesses and households. She encouraged Swiss investors to explore opportunities in agro-processing, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, industrial infrastructure and digital technology, supported by initiatives like the 24-Hour Economy, the Big Push infrastructure programme and export development schemes.
Swiss Ambassador Simone Giger, in her remarks, praised Ghana for its economic reforms and stable investment climate, describing Ghana as a strategic partner for Switzerland in Africa. She expressed confidence in Ghana’s skilled workforce and expanding market opportunities, noting that Swiss companies remain committed to long-term engagement.
Ambassador Giger reaffirmed Switzerland’s readiness to promote additional investments in green energy, value-added agriculture and industrial innovation. She emphasised that Switzerland is committed to responsible and sustainable investments that support job creation and inclusive economic growth in Ghana.
The Minister also used the platform to interact with business leaders, responding to questions on industry protection, intra-African trade promotion and the need for a smoother banking system within the West African subregion. She assured participants of government’s unwavering support for private sector development and the continued strengthening of Ghana–Swiss economic cooperation.
The event closed with renewed commitment from both sides to expand trade, encourage foreign investment and build a mutually beneficial economic partnership.
