Economic Growth and Trade

If economies in West Africa are to grow fast enough to reduce poverty, then they must be able to compete and trade. USAID focuses on trade competitiveness in global markets as a way to increase the effectiveness of African institutions in promoting a vibrant private sector. USAID’s West Africa Trade Hub in Ghana builds regional capacity for negotiation and implementation of trade agreements and promotes the commercial opportunities made possible by the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act.

The West Africa Trade Hub works with select export-ready companies to expand trading relationships with U.S. and global markets in non-traditional sectors, including apparel, home decor and fashion accessories, shea, specialty foods, and cashews. To support trade that falls under AGOA legislation, the Hub provides assistance to individual firms, as well as large groups and alliances.

Activities include:

• Increasing exports: promoting international trade shows and buyer visits to the region, increasing awareness and utilization of AGOA by providing training and outreach; improving business marketing and improving sector visibility internationally.
• Engaging the private sector: developing and promoting industry alliances by leveraging private sector resources and connections, working with stakeholders to analyze obstacles and mobilize to improve access to finance.
• Reducing the costs of transport: working with stakeholders to analyze the causes of high transport costs and mobilize to reduce them; assisting the Economic Community of West African States and its member states to fully implement regional trade rules.