Ghana’s trade with China reached an unprecedented US$11.8 billion in 2024, marking a 7.1% year-on-year growth, according to statements delivered at a press soiree hosted by the Ghana–China Friendship Association (GHACHIFA) in Accra.
The Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Mr. Tong Defa, has highlighted that Ghana remains China’s largest trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa and a key strategic ally. Ambassador Tong’s message underscored the significant contributions of Chinese enterprises operating in Ghana, which have not only created substantial employment opportunities, but have also supported the country’s industrialization efforts.
He highlighted the successful establishment of Confucius Institutes, which now offer language and cultural training to over 10,000 Ghanaian students, while more than 3,000 Ghanaian students are currently studying in China, reflecting the robust educational exchanges between the two nations.
The ambassador also pointed to the ongoing work of Chinese medical teams in Ghana, noting that the 14th team is providing healthcare services and introducing Chinese medical expertise across the country.
These initiatives, he said, have enhanced healthcare access and earned widespread appreciation among Ghanaians. Ambassador Tong also recognized President John Dramani Mahama’s October 2025 visit to China, during which he met with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang to outline a blueprint for further development of bilateral relations.
The event, which also celebrated 25 years of GHACHIFA’s work and 65 years of diplomatic relations between Ghana and China, brought together diplomats, business leaders, journalists, and civil society representatives to reflect on the growing economic, cultural, and social partnership between the two nations.
Under President Mahama’s personal guidance, the two sides reached an agreement in principle on the Early Harvest Arrangements of the Agreement on Economic Partnership for Shared Development, positioning Ghana as one of the first African countries to benefit from China’s zero-tariff policy for 100 percent of tariff lines.
The ambassador emphasized that the momentum built in 2025 would continue into 2026, designated the China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, which will deepen cooperation in trade, education, health, and technology while fostering new opportunities for both countries.
Looking ahead, the event emphasized that initiatives in vocational training, women’s empowerment, ICT, artificial intelligence, and youth innovation programs will continue to expand opportunities for both countries. Ambassador Tong concluded with a reflection on the enduring nature of Ghana–China friendship: “The Ghana–China friendship has scaled many peaks, yet we continue to set sail. Together, we advance, build, and innovate, ensuring a shared future of prosperity and development for both nations.”
The press soiree reinforced the message that the relationship between Ghana and China is robust, multi-faceted, and future-oriented, underpinned by trade growth, investment, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections that are poised to strengthen even further in 2026.
The Chairman of the Association of Chinese Societies in Ghana and National Vice Chair of GHACHIFA, Mr Tang Hong, emphasised the Chinese community’s active engagement in social and humanitarian initiatives across the country. He described how the community responded to the tragic conflict in Bainari, Savannah Region, raising over GH¢1 million to provide food, water, medicine, and other essentials to affected families.
Tang also stressed on initiatives such as funding over 500 cataract surgeries at the Ghana Child Friendship Hospital and contributing GH¢2.4 million to support the government’s national gun amnesty program, illustrating the community’s commitment to social development and national well-being.
Mr. Tang further emphasized GHACHIFA’s cultural and educational initiatives, which include youth forums, innovation and entrepreneurship competitions, women’s empowerment programs, and vocational training initiatives. He noted that these programs are critical for strengthening people-to-people exchanges, building mutual understanding, and fostering collaboration between Ghanaian and Chinese communities.
National Chairman, H.E. Anany Demuyakor and General Secretary Dr Benjamin Anyagre, reflected on the association’s 25-year journey of promoting friendship, collaboration, and mutual understanding.
Chairman Demuyakor welcomed the media, stressing the importance of positive narratives around Ghana–China relations and encouraging journalists to focus on the economic, educational, and social contributions of Chinese investment in Ghana, including major projects such as TAM Palace Hotel, Central Oil Refinery, Sundan Tiles, China Malls, Zunda Vehicles, and Samoa Circuit Power.
Dr. Benjamin Anyagre, GHACHIFA’s General Secretary, reinforced the message by highlighting the historical roots of Ghana–China relations, stretching back to the 1950s and solidified during the Bandung Conference of 1955 and the Treaty of Friendship signed by Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Premier Zhou Enlai in 1961.
He observed that these long-standing ties have evolved into a comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership, spanning infrastructure, trade, education, healthcare, governance, and social welfare.
The speakers collectively painted a picture of a multi-dimensional partnership. Beyond trade, Ghana–China relations have facilitated the development of modern transport networks, industrial parks, ports, airports, and information technology infrastructure, strengthening Ghana’s national and regional connectivity. Collaborative programs in education, culture, sports, science, technology, and green development have enhanced mutual understanding and created tangible benefits for both societies.
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