The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) has held its 2025 Regional Annual General Meeting and Seminar in the Volta Region under the theme “Creating a Conducive Business Environment for Industrial Competitiveness: The 24-Hour Economy in Perspective.”

Association of Ghana Industries Regional Chairman, Dela Gadzanku, highlighted the association’s ongoing efforts to strengthen industrial competitiveness through capacity building for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), regional trade and investment programmes, and initiatives in partnership with government and development agencies. He also announced the acquisition of land for the construction of a regional secretariat and SME Innovation Hub to be named after AGI’s founder, the late Dr. Mrs. Esther Ocloo.

“As we reflect on the 24-hour economy envisioned by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, we see an opportunity to reimagine our productivity, infrastructure and place in global markets,” Mr. Gadzanku said, stressing the need for stronger collaboration between government, the private sector, and development partners.

Principal Export Promotion Officer at GEPA, Madam Doris Ama Bansah, underscored the link between industrial growth and exports, urging SMEs to embrace opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). She reiterated GEPA’s commitment to supporting AGI and its members to reduce barriers, enhance capacity, and expand into regional and global markets.

Chief Executive Officer of Association of Ghana Industries,  Seth Twum-Akwaboah, emphasized the importance of creating a conducive macro and micro business environment, noting challenges such as high interest rates, energy costs, and limited access to skilled labour. He announced upcoming mentorship programmes, grants, and training partnerships to build sustainable enterprises and bridge the skills gap in the industrial sector.

This year’s meeting coincides with the 30th anniversary of AGI’s relaunch in the Volta Region. Members described the milestone as a call to deepen industrial transformation and accelerate efforts to position the Volta, Oti and Eastern regions as hubs for commerce and industry.