GNCCI Launches Initiative to Boost Ghanaian SMEs in Europe

Accra: The Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) has launched an initiative dubbed 'GhanaFest Europe 2025,' to create opportunities for Ghanaian businesses in Europe. The programme, scheduled for 23-25 October 2025, will take place at the Amare Convention Centre in The Hague, Netherlands.According to Ghana News Agency, the festival will include sector-specific business forums, logistics and export facilitation, and a curated showcase of export-ready Ghanaian products for prospective buyers. Dr Mrs. Emelia Assiakwa, the GNCCI's First Vice President, stated at the launch ceremony in Accra that the Chamber aimed to ensure Ghanaian processed foods, textiles, and handicrafts not only reach European shelves but also become competitive brands.She said the festival would feature businesses in the food, clothing, cosmetics, and fintech sectors, which would exhibit their products and services to potential clients in the Netherlands and across Europe. The Vice President also affirmed the Chamber's sincere commitment to supporting its members at the event. However, she noted that the festival's success would depend on the active participation of Ghanaian businesses, their readiness to meet international standards, and their willingness to invest in long-term trade relationships.Ms. Hilde Famaey, General Manager of the Ghana Netherlands Business Culture Council, highlighted the festival as an excellent opportunity for Ghanaian businesses to scout for their next big business venture. She urged them to use the platform not just to showcase products but to present investment-ready projects. She also underscored the long-standing partnership between Ghana and the Netherlands, particularly in the cocoa sector, noting that the Netherlands had been highly supportive of Ghanaian cocoa farmers.Mr. Kofi Okyere Darko, the Director of the Diaspora Affairs Office at the Presidency, said the festival would allow Ghanaian businesses to nurture transnational identity, and contribute to the development of both countr ies. He said the festival would signal to Europe that products made in Ghana represent quality, sustainability, and creativity.