President John Dramani Mahama has unveiled an ambitious plan to deepen Ghana-Jamaica trade relations by proposing the inclusion of Caribbean nations in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) while fast-tracking direct flights between Accra and Montego Bay to boost trade, tourism, and investment.
Speaking during a joint media briefing with Jamaican Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness as part of his four-day state visit to Jamaica, President Mahama said the long-standing cultural ties between Ghana and Jamaica should now evolve into stronger economic partnerships, business opportunities, and investment cooperation.
Mahama to Champion Caribbean Inclusion in AfCFTA
President Mahama announced that Ghana intends to use its upcoming African Union (AU) chairmanship next year to advocate for expanding the AfCFTA to include Caribbean countries, giving businesses in Jamaica access to Africa’s rapidly growing 1.4 billion consumer market with an economy valued at nearly US$3 trillion.
According to him, extending the Africa free trade agreement to the Caribbean would allow businesses to trade goods duty-free and tariff-free, creating new export opportunities for manufacturers, investors, and entrepreneurs on both sides of the Atlantic.
Mahama noted that expanding Africa-Caribbean trade would strengthen commercial ties, encourage cross-border investment, and support sustainable economic growth across the regions.
Direct Flights Between Ghana and Jamaica to Boost Tourism and Business
The Ghanaian President also disclosed that his government will fast-track parliamentary approval of the bilateral air services agreement, paving the way for direct commercial flights between Accra and Montego Bay.
Once approved, national airlines or third-party carriers will be able to operate direct flights, significantly improving travel, tourism, business connectivity, and cargo transportation between Ghana and Jamaica.
The proposed air route is expected to reduce travel time, enhance business exchanges, increase tourist arrivals, and strengthen diplomatic and economic cooperation.
Jamaican Prime Minister Welcomes the Initiative
Prime Minister Andrew Holness welcomed the proposed direct Ghana-Jamaica flights, describing them as one of the most significant outcomes of President Mahama’s state visit.
He said Africa represents one of the world’s fastest-growing regions in terms of population and economic development, making stronger South-South cooperation increasingly important for both governments.
Holness stressed that the partnership is intended to move beyond historical and cultural connections by creating practical opportunities for trade, investment, job creation, and economic development.
Expanding Tourism and Investment Opportunities
The Jamaican leader explained that while Jamaica has traditionally focused its tourism marketing efforts on North America, Europe, and South America, the country now intends to target Africa’s expanding middle class, whose growing demand for international travel presents significant opportunities for the Caribbean tourism industry.
He added that stronger air connectivity and trade partnerships would encourage more African visitors, investors, and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in Jamaica.
Ghana and Jamaica Eye Stronger Maritime and Logistics Cooperation
Beyond aviation, both leaders outlined plans to strengthen maritime trade, logistics, and port development between the two nations.
Prime Minister Holness highlighted Jamaica’s continued investment in expanding the Port of Kingston, while President Mahama pointed to Ghana’s efforts to develop its ports as strategic gateways to West Africa.
Both leaders agreed that connecting their logistics hubs could improve shipping efficiency, facilitate international trade, and position Ghana and Jamaica as commercial gateways linking Africa and the Caribbean.
President Mahama emphasized that the Atlantic Ocean should serve as a bridge for economic cooperation rather than a barrier, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to expanding international trade, investment, tourism, and business partnerships.
Source: newsthemegh.com