Mahama hails $11.8bn Ghana‑China surge, cites zero‑tariff

President John Dramani Mahama said Ghana’s trade with China surged to US$11.8 billion in 2024, a rise of more than seven percent, underscoring the partnership’s steady expansion.

In an exclusive interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN) the president affirmed China remains Ghana’s largest trading partner and that momentum will continue as both sides deepen economic cooperation.

Mahama told host Wang Guan that the zero‑tariff policy, now taking effect, will create a conducive atmosphere for even greater trade volumes.

The discussion, aired on CGTN’s Leaders Talk programme, also revisited Mahama’s recent meeting with President Xi Jinping and examined China’s proposed Global Governance Initiative aimed at strengthening ties with developing nations amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

“We are making progress toward a possible zero‑tariff arrangement with China,” Mahama stated, praising Beijing’s long‑standing support for Africa’s infrastructure, industrialisation and vocational training.

The interview coincides with the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Accra and Beijing, a milestone both governments describe as an opportunity to explore new partnership areas in a shifting global landscape.

Analysts note that the $11.8 billion trade figure reflects a compound annual growth rate of over seven percent, signalling tangible benefits for Ghanaian exporters and consumers alike.

As Ghana moves from political independence toward full economic transformation, Mahama emphasised that deeper collaboration with China will be central to shaping the country’s next development chapter.

Both sides are expected to negotiate further trade, investment and technology agreements in the coming months, with the zero‑tariff framework likely to be a focal point of future talks.

Image Source: MYJOYONLINE