GEPA Deputy CEO Highlights Role of International Partnerships in Boosting Ghana’s Vegetable Industry
Deputy CEO of the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA), Rashid Kramer, has underscored the crucial role of international partnerships, particularly with Israel, in advancing Ghana’s vegetable industry through technology and innovation.
Speaking at a breakfast forum on enhancing Ghana’s vegetable sector—organized by the Israeli Economic and Trade Mission in collaboration with the Vegetable Producers and Exporters Association of Ghana (VEPEAG)—Mr. Kramer emphasized how foreign collaborations are accelerating production capacity and efficiency.
“With Israel bringing in its technology and expertise, we are seeing substantial improvements in the industry, and we expect even greater growth in the sector,” he stated.
He further highlighted the role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in easing trade within the region, adding that Ghana is also working to deepen trade relations with the European Union and Asian markets to expand its export reach.
“Initiatives such as participation in trade fairs like McFoods in Italy and Food Logistics are creating new opportunities for exporters. These platforms enable Ghanaian exporters to connect with international partners, ensuring direct and efficient trade channels,” he noted.
On supply chain transparency, Mr. Kramer pointed to the implementation of E-Trace, a digital tracking system that enhances product traceability.
“E-Trace allows us to track produce from its origin to the final destination, ensuring quality control and compliance with market-specific standards. This helps exporters align their products with the required specifications of their target markets, whether in Europe, America, or Asia,” he remarked.
To further strengthen export competitiveness, GEPA is also providing targeted training to exporters on international standards.
“We have experts from the European Union guiding exporters on required standards, ensuring they produce for specific markets without deviation,” he added.
The forum highlighted the need for sustained collaboration and technological adoption to enhance the competitiveness of Ghana’s vegetable industry on the global stage.
