Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa proposes AfCFTA expansion to Caribbean states

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has formally proposed the expansion of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to include Caribbean nations. Speaking at the Commonwealth Business Forum in Antigua and Barbuda, the Minister outlined a vision supported by President John Dramani Mahama to transform historical and cultural ties into robust economic partnerships. The initiative aims to create a more integrated market that fosters trade, investment, and job creation across the Atlantic.

The proposal envisions a structured African Union-Caribbean Community (AU-CARICOM) partnership to integrate the two regions. Currently, the AfCFTA serves a market of approximately 1.4 billion people across 55 African Union member states, with a combined GDP exceeding $3 trillion. Mr. Ablakwa noted that recent investments from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in the Caribbean already signal a growing economic synergy, providing a foundation for this broader trade framework.

Despite the significant potential for growth, the Minister identified critical logistical barriers that must be addressed, particularly limited air connectivity and transport infrastructure. To resolve these challenges, the government is working toward the revival of Ghana Airways by 2027 to serve as a primary link between the regions. Additionally, Ghana is seeking to enhance port cooperation, specifically with Jamaica, to streamline the movement of goods and services between Africa and the Caribbean.

This move toward Caribbean integration aligns with Ghana's domestic focus on increasing trade capacity through value addition. Minister Ablakwa highlighted that the country now refines 70% of its gold exports, reflecting a broader shift toward exporting finished goods rather than raw materials. The proposed expansion is expected to undergo a phased implementation, ensuring that both African and Caribbean economies can adjust to the new regulatory and legal frameworks required for a unified market.