A group of Ghanaian exporters and importers convened at the chancery of Pretoria Mission to discuss a constitution drafted by the group to guide its operations. The meeting was also attended by two officials from Access Bank South Africa, who provided valuable insights on topics, including foreign exchange exposure, navigating trading regulations in South Africa, regulatory compliance, exchange controls, and risk management strategies, among others. The officials emphasised the importance of planning and hedging against foreign currency risks, as well as the advantages of direct conversion of Ghana cedis to Rand without utilising the dollar cross-border banking system.

The Access Bank officials also highlighted the benefits of partnering with the bank, particularly its extensive Pan-African reach, a proven track record in trade financing, cross-border settlement, and treasury advisory services.

His Excellency Benjamin Anani Quashie, the High Commissioner, commended the group for their initiative to address the trade deficit of about R471 million, which arose from South African exports of R513 million to Ghana, as against imports from Ghana of 42.8 million in August, 2025 and their willingness to tackle the common challenges faced by Ghanaian importers and exporters.

High Commissioner Quashie also encouraged the Importers/Exporters to particularly take advantage of the single-digit inflation rate of 8%, benefiting the Ghanaian economy through improved price stability, which strengthens the value of the cedi and makes imports cheaper, leading to lower consumer prices.

The Deputy Head of Mission, on his part, lauded the group for its determination to evolve into a model organisation.

The meeting ended with a photo session, marking a collaborative step forward in enhancing trade relations.