210 Register for Ghana EXPO 2003

Accra, July 4, GNA - A total of 210 small and medium enterprises and companies have so far registered to participate in the forthcoming EXPO Africa 2003 Trade, Exhibition and Investment Conference in the United Kingdom. The companies, which are from all over the country, are engaged in financial services, manufacturing, agriculture, non-traditional exports, textiles, garments, arts and craft, jewellery, beads and spices. They are also engaged in the wood and wood products, cocoa and cocoa products among other things.

Mr Prince Ackuako, an official of EXPO Africa, co-organizers told the Ghana News Agency that the event was providing a unique platform for businesses to explore the full range of Ghanaian goods and services and the vast untapped investment opportunities in Ghana. Ghana EXPO 2003 would encourage investments, productivity and innovation for business and individuals, who want to broaden their horizons in the Ghanaian and African markets. He described the response so far as very encouraging and was sure of a successful EXPO, saying, " so far so good I must say. The enthusiasm has really shot up especially after the Kumasi launch some weeks ago".

Ghana EXPO 2003 organised by EXPO Africa in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade and Industry was scheduled for Alexandra Palace, London from October 16 to October 18. Mr Ackuako told the GNA that policy makers from Ghana would be on hand to highlight the untapped business potential in the country and also reassure potential investors of government's commitment to the private sector. The objective of the EXPO include presenting Ghana as a trade and investment Gateway to West Africa, establishing Ghana as a reliable supply source of raw materials, finished products and quality labour as well as position the country as a strong partner in development. "It is also meant to advertise Ghana's image with regard to trade and investment opportunities and growth potential."

Another major aspect of the event, he said, was the business and investment forum that would offer opportunities for Ghanaian entrepreneurs to meet their counterparts from European, Asian and American business communities for interactions. The Planning Committee sources said provision was being made to facilitate a trouble-free EXPO where exhibitor's products not only arrived on time, but that their travel procedures were streamlined.