The 9th Ghana International Trade & Finance Conference (GITFiC 2025), scheduled for October 29th to November 2nd, 2025, in Accra, Ghana, promises to be a pivotal event in shaping the future of global trade and finance, particularly within the African context. Organized in collaboration with the National Technical Working Committee of the GITFiC Agenda 2031, the conference will convene a diverse and influential assembly of stakeholders, including heads of state, ministers, central bank governors, international development experts, economists, business leaders, academics, and civil society representatives. Under the theme “Spurring GITFiC’s Global Debt Initiative; Consolidating Member States’ Gains for Synergistic Impacts,” the conference aims to address critical issues surrounding debt sustainability, trade facilitation, and regional integration, leveraging the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
A key highlight of GITFiC 2025 will be the 2nd Global Debt Initiative (GDI), a platform designed to foster collaborative solutions for managing global debt challenges. The escalating debt burdens faced by many countries, particularly in the developing world, pose a significant threat to economic stability and sustainable development. The GDI seeks to bring together key players in the global financial landscape to explore innovative strategies for debt restructuring, debt relief, and responsible lending practices. The goal is to create a more equitable and sustainable global financial architecture that supports the development aspirations of all nations. The conference will provide a crucial forum for in-depth discussions, analysis, and the formulation of actionable recommendations to address the global debt crisis.
Another significant component of GITFiC 2025 is the inaugural AfCFTA Tertiary Students’ Congress. This initiative reflects a commitment to empowering the next generation of African leaders and equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of trade and finance in the context of the AfCFTA. The congress will provide a platform for tertiary students from across Africa to engage with experts, policymakers, and business leaders, fostering a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by the AfCFTA. This engagement will empower young Africans to actively participate in shaping the continent’s trade and financial future, ensuring that their voices are heard and their perspectives are incorporated into policy decisions.
The overarching theme of GITFiC 2025 underscores the interconnectedness of debt, trade, and regional integration in achieving sustainable development. The conference will explore how the AfCFTA can be leveraged to promote intra-African trade, boost economic growth, and create jobs across the continent. Discussions will focus on strategies for reducing trade barriers, harmonizing regulations, and strengthening regional value chains. The conference will also examine the role of responsible debt management in fostering a conducive environment for trade and investment. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, GITFiC 2025 aims to foster a collaborative approach to addressing these complex challenges and unlocking the full potential of the AfCFTA.
The five-day conference program will feature a series of high-level plenary sessions, interactive workshops, and networking events. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions with leading experts, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions. The conference aims to generate actionable policy recommendations that can inform national and regional strategies for promoting sustainable development through trade and finance. The insights and perspectives shared during the conference will contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing African economies and inform the development of effective strategies for leveraging the AfCFTA to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth.
The Ghana International Trade & Finance Conference serves as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing on critical issues impacting global trade and finance, with a particular focus on Africa. GITFiC 2025 promises to be a landmark event, providing a unique opportunity for stakeholders from across the globe to converge and contribute to shaping a more equitable and sustainable future for all. The conference’s focus on empowering young Africans through the AfCFTA Tertiary Students’ Congress further underscores its commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable development across the continent. The outcomes of GITFiC 2025 are expected to have a significant impact on shaping policy and driving progress towards a more prosperous and interconnected global economy. Those interested in participating in this significant event can register online at gitfic.com/register-now or contact the organizers directly.
