The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) is gearing up to introduce a groundbreaking initiative at the 7th Volta Trade & Investment Fair, scheduled for 2025: a pilot 24-hour trading period. This innovative approach aims to maximize exposure for participating businesses and align with the government’s vision of stimulating the Volta region’s economy through continuous service provision. The fair, a significant event in Ghana’s business calendar, anticipates the participation of over 300 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from across the country and beyond, offering them a crucial platform to showcase their products and services to a diverse audience, including potential customers, investors, and partners. This initiative marks a significant evolution of the Volta Trade Fair, demonstrating the AGI’s commitment to fostering economic growth and development within the region.
The concept of a 24-hour trading period, while novel within the context of the Volta Trade Fair, reflects a broader trend towards maximizing commercial activity and capitalizing on opportunities for extended engagement. While the fair itself will span 12 days, a dedicated four-day period will be allocated to this round-the-clock operation, providing an unprecedented window for businesses to connect with potential clients and investors. This extended timeframe allows businesses to cater to a wider range of schedules and potentially attract a larger audience, including those who may not be available during traditional business hours. The AGI believes that this intensive period of commercial activity will significantly boost trade volumes and contribute to the overall success of the fair.
Dela Gadzanku, Regional Chair of the Eastern, Volta & Oti Branch of AGI, expressed strong optimism about the potential impact of the 24-hour trading period. He emphasized that this initiative aligns seamlessly with the government’s strategic objective of revitalizing the Volta region’s economy by promoting continuous service provision in crucial sectors. The 24-hour operation is expected to not only facilitate increased trade but also generate greater visibility for local businesses, attracting potential investors and further bolstering the region’s economic landscape. Gadzanku’s enthusiasm underlines the AGI’s confidence in the transformative potential of this innovative approach.
The AGI has issued a call to action to all stakeholders, urging their support for this pioneering initiative. The organization believes that by showcasing the Volta region’s economic potential and facilitating increased commercial activity, the 24-hour trading period will play a pivotal role in creating new job opportunities and fostering the growth of local businesses. This collaborative effort, involving businesses, government agencies, and the wider community, is crucial for realizing the full potential of the Volta Trade Fair and contributing to the sustainable economic development of the region. The AGI’s appeal underscores the importance of collective action in achieving shared economic goals.
Beyond the immediate benefits of increased trade and investment, the AGI envisions the 24-hour fair as a catalyst for broader economic development in the Volta region. By showcasing the dynamism and potential of local businesses, the event aims to attract increased investment and stimulate further growth. This positive feedback loop, driven by increased visibility and commercial activity, is expected to contribute to long-term sustainable development and improve the overall economic well-being of the region. The AGI’s vision extends beyond the immediate success of the fair, focusing on its long-term impact on the region’s prosperity.
The AGI expressed sincere gratitude to the Volta Regional Minister, Hon. James Gunu, for his steadfast support of both the Volta Trade Fair and the “Visit Volta” program. Recognizing the importance of collaborative partnerships, the AGI acknowledges the Minister’s instrumental role in promoting the region and facilitating the success of these initiatives. This acknowledgment highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in driving economic growth and development within the region. The collaborative spirit between the AGI and the Volta Regional Minister underscores the shared commitment to achieving sustainable economic progress in the Volta region.
