Jamaica, Ghana eye major business boom

Jamaica and Ghana are moving to deepen economic ties, with both countries setting their sights on increased trade, investment and easier access to new markets as they seek to turn centuries of shared history into shared prosperity.

Speaking at a joint press conference on Monday following bilateral talks with President John Dramani Mahama, who is on a four-day state visit to Jamaica, Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness said the partnership forms part of Jamaica's broader effort to strengthen commercial ties with Africa.

Holness pointed to a virtual investment and business mission held last month, which connected Jamaican and Ghanaian businesses and has already begun producing results.

"We're already seeing results in areas of logistics, tourism, hospitality, fintech and the creative industries," he said.

President Mahama said bringing business leaders from both countries together is the first step towards unlocking greater investment opportunities.

"There are many opportunities that exist here in Jamaica, and there are many opportunities that exist in Ghana," he said.

"Both of us have the vision of creating our nations into hubs for our shared region. And so, hub to hub, we can compete both in investments and movement of goods and services."

Mahama also reflected on the historical ties between the two nations, noting the influence of Jamaica's National Hero Marcus Garvey on Ghana's independence movement.

"This time it is not about liberation from colonial domination; this time it is economic emancipation of our people, and we have no option but to work together," he said.

Holness revealed that Mahama will tour one of Jamaica's ports during his visit as both governments explore stronger maritime links.

"We can make it easier for a Ghanaian exporter to reach the Caribbean and the Americas, and easier for a Jamaican exporter to reach Africa, particularly in the context of the African Free Trade Area," the prime minister said.

The discussions also covered cooperation in healthcare, defence, air travel and continued support for slavery reparations.

President Mahama is in Jamaica from August 2 to 5 as a special guest for the country's Emancipation and Independence celebrations.

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