Prof Samuel Kobina Annim
Ghana’s economy has shown significant signs of resilience, with the country recording a trade surplus of GH₵3.9 billion in the third quarter of 2024, according to the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).
This marks a remarkable turnaround from the trade deficit of GH₵2.3 billion recorded in the same period last year.
The GSS reported that exports in the third quarter of 2024 amounted to GH₵74.8 billion, while imports totalled GH₵70.9 billion.
This surplus is a testament to the country’s efforts to boost exports and reduce its reliance on imports.
In US dollar terms, the total trade amounted to US$9.6 billion, consisting of US$4.9 billion in exports and US$4.7 billion in imports.
This significant improvement in trade balance is a welcome development for Ghana’s economy, which has been working to recover from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and global economic uncertainty.
Ghana’s trade performance has been a subject of interest in recent years, with the country seeking to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on traditional exports such as gold and cocoa.
The government has implemented various initiatives aimed at promoting exports and improving the business environment, including the One District, One Factory (1D1F) program and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA).
The trade surplus recorded in Q3 2024 is a positive indication that these efforts are bearing fruit.
The country’s exports have been driven by a range of sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and services.
The improvement in trade balance is also expected to have a positive impact on Ghana’s foreign exchange reserves and the value of the cedi.
A stable exchange rate is essential for businesses and investors, and the trade surplus is likely to contribute to a more stable economic environment.
While the trade surplus is a welcome development, it is essential to note that Ghana’s economy still faces challenges, including a high fiscal deficit and rising inflation.
The government must continue to implement policies aimed at promoting economic growth, reducing poverty, and improving the living standards of Ghanaians.
However, the trade surplus recorded in Q3 2024 is a significant achievement for Ghana’s economy, and it demonstrates the country’s resilience and potential for growth.
-BY Daniel Bampoe