It was on the theme: “Driving Export through the implementation of National Export Development Strategy (NEDS).”

The objective of the workshop was to coordinate export activities which have the potential to propel growth in the Non-Traditional Exports (NTEs) sector.

Addressing the participants, the Eastern Regional Director of GEPA, Dr George Adomako, said the introduction of NEDS was a demonstration of the commitment of the government to transform the economy from raw material export to an industrial value addition export-led economy.

He said it was also to boost the economy, generate income, create jobs and promote the local production and manufacturing sectors of the economy.

According to Dr Adomako, NEDS would create opportunities for the private sector and increase earning while building the required human capital for industrial export and development.

He appealed to Ghanaians to support the local industry by patronising made-in-Ghana products which he said, would help strengthen the local currency and stabilise the economy.

Borderless Africa

The Programme Officer of National AfCFTA Coordinating Office, Mimi Asante, said the objective of AfCFTA was to create a borderless market for African countries to promote inter trade among African countries.

She said the road map for the national policy framework would ensure trade facilitation, expedite the process and enhance capacities.

Related development

In a related development, GEPA also organised a training school to empower and strengthen the SMEs in the Ashanti Region to increase their production base and enter international markets.

It formed part of activities to support the growth of the private sector and create more job opportunities for the youth.

It was to help the country achieve its NEDS target of $25.3 billion export by 2029.

Addressing the participants, the GEPA Zonal Manager for Ashanti, Bono and Bono East regions, Francis Fosu Kwakye, said the training would equip the participants with the skills and knowledge needed for export.

Areas

The participants were taken through contract negotiations, social media marketing, African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and skills in Non Traditional Exports.

Mr Kwakye said GEPA was building the capacities of more SMEs to expand production and add value to their manufactured goods.