Canadian High Commissioner Calls for Reforms in Ghana’s Business Environment to Enhance Trade

The Canadian High Commissioner to Ghana, Myriam Montrat, has called for substantial reforms in Ghana’s business and regulatory environment to promote international trade and investment. According to her, these changes would make Ghana more accessible to foreign investors, especially those from Canada.
Speaking at the end-of-year dinner and awards ceremony organized by the Canada Chamber of Commerce Ghana (CanCham) in Accra, Ms. Montrat stressed that continued advocacy from diplomatic missions and national chambers is vital for pushing for positive reforms in the country’s business landscape. The event brought together Chamber members to celebrate their accomplishments in 2024.
“Ghana has a significant amount of work ahead in reforming its business and regulatory environment to better attract international trade and investment. We must continue to advocate, in collaboration with our diplomatic missions and their national chambers, to apply the necessary pressure for these reforms,” she stated.
While acknowledging the progress made in Canada-Africa relations, Ms. Montrat highlighted the need for increased visibility of Canada’s commercial presence on the continent, particularly in Ghana. She stressed the importance of moving beyond discussions about the potential for trade and investment and instead focusing on achieving concrete results.
“Although we are making significant strides in Canada-Africa relations, both sides recognize that Canada’s presence in Africa, and particularly in Ghana, needs to be more visible. In our commercial relations, we need to go beyond discussing the potential for increased trade and investment and focus on turning that potential into tangible results. There are challenges, but we must overcome them,” she said.
Ms. Montrat also emphasized the important role that the Canadian High Commission’s trade team and the Chamber can play in overcoming these challenges to strengthen trade relations between Canada and Ghana. She further urged Canadian businesses to become more aware of the opportunities available in Ghana, stressing that sustained engagement is key to creating lasting partnerships.
“Canada needs to be more aware of the economic opportunities Ghana offers,” she noted. “Despite the current global economic challenges, continued engagement between businesses will be essential for laying the groundwork for future growth and prosperity.”
Linda Vasnani, President of CanCham Ghana, also spoke at the event, recognizing the Chamber’s achievements and looking forward to the future. She expressed gratitude for the dedication of the Chamber’s members and partners, noting that their collective efforts had contributed to a successful 2024.
Looking ahead to 2025, Vasnani outlined the Chamber’s plans to focus on advocacy and expanding its presence in specific industry sectors. She expressed confidence in the potential to strengthen trade relations between Ghana and Canada in the coming year. The Chamber also plans to host more events designed to strengthen strategic business relationships and provide training opportunities through webinars and workshops to help build capacity.
Vasnani also reaffirmed CanCham’s commitment to driving development and fostering stronger partnerships over the coming years. “We are dedicated to continuing our work to strengthen the ties between Canada and Ghana, and our efforts in 2025 will be focused on supporting our members and building the necessary frameworks for future success,” she added.
At the event, CanCham also honored outstanding members for their contributions to enhancing trade relations between Ghana and Canada. Consolidated Shipping Agencies Limited was named the Best CanCham Member of the Year for its role in strengthening business ties between the two countries. Edward William Wiafe received the Executive Leadership Award for his leadership in advancing the Chamber’s goals. Other award winners included Base Pharmacy Company Limited, Sewia Mining Company Limited, and M&G Logistics Limited, all of whom were recognized for their significant contributions to promoting trade and business development.
The recognition of these businesses underscores the growing importance of fostering strong trade ties between Ghana and Canada. With the continued efforts of CanCham, the Canadian High Commission, and the business community, there is optimism that the trade relationship between the two countries will continue to flourish in 2025 and beyond.