THE Director of Retail and Business Banking at Consolidated Bank Ghana (CBG), Emmanuel Nikoi, has reinforced the bank’s commitment to enhance the capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country.

Speaking after the bank organised a business trip for businesses to China, he said: “This initiative reflects our commitment to enhancing the capabilities of Ghanaian SMEs.

By equipping our clients with essential trade skills and helping them build strategic relationships, we support their growth and, ultimately, Ghana’s economic progress.”

The CBG trade trip to China enabled the bank’s SME clients to gain first-hand access to new markets, build strong supplier relationships, and navigate international trade with confidence. 

This initiative aligns with CBG’s commitment to support Ghanaian businesses in global trade while establishing the bank as a leader in trade finance for SMEs.

It coincided with the 136th Canton Fair in Guangzhou, China—one of the world’s largest trade exhibitions. 

Opportunity

A release issued in Accra yesterday said: “CBG’s clients had the unique opportunity to engage with suppliers in various sectors, including consumer electronics, household goods and health care. 

The trip also offered CBG customers a chance to explore the potential for exporting their goods, fostering a pathway to international markets. These engagements provided invaluable insights, empowering participants to negotiate effectively, explore supply options, and deepen their understanding of trade terms and procedures.”

It said in a reflection of CBG’s dedication to its clients, the bank provided skilled resource personnel fluent in Chinese and familiar with local business practices, bridging cultural and language barriers and ensuring secure transactions for all attendees. 

The itinerary, the release said, was carefully designed to meet the specific needs of Ghanaian SMEs, introducing them to Chinese culture, negotiation techniques and best practices for identifying genuine business partners. 

Trade hubs

It added that throughout the trip, customers were guided through major trade hubs, including the Canton Fair and specialised markets for electronics, textiles, jewellery and leather goods, each selected to meet the diverse needs of the participants. 

The release said the trade mission builds on the success of CBG’s previous trips and has sparked a growing demand for more CBG-led opportunities, adding that “By focusing on such transformative experiences, CBG continues to strengthen its reputation as Ghana’s SME bank of choice”.

Into the future

Mr Nikoi said CBG looked forward to offering similar trade missions in the future, supporting even more Ghanaian businesses as they expand into global markets. 

“As the bank stands by its mandate, We Stand With You, CBG remains dedicated to fostering long-term partnerships that contribute to Ghana’s growth and prosperity on the world stage,” he added.