Launch of the GhanaFest Europe 2026 and the GNBCC Trade Mission

The Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI) hosted the official launch of GhanaFest Europe 2026 and the GNBCC Trade Mission at its National Secretariat Conference Room in Dzorwulu, Accra on Tuesday, 21st April, 2026. The ceremony brought together government officials, business leaders, institutional partners, and members of the media to unveil Ghana’s premier trade and cultural expo on the European continent. Hilde Famaey, General Manager of the Ghana Netherlands Business & Culture Council (GNBCC), was present to support the initiative and highlight the council’s pivotal role in the upcoming mission.

In his keynote, Augustine Mark, CEO of RAM Media Concepts, described Ghanafest Europe as “a bold statement of Ghana’s readiness to compete on the global stage, add measurable value to our products and services, and forge sustainable partnerships that will shape the trajectory of Ghana-Netherlands trade for generations to come.” He emphasized that the 2026 edition, scheduled for September 10–12 at the World Trade Centre in Amsterdam, will be bigger, more inclusive, and transformational.

The theme for this year expo is: “Value Addition and Sustainable Partnerships: Shaping the Future of Ghana-Netherlands Trade.”

Strategic Collaboration

The event also featured remarks from institutional partners, including the Ghana Netherlands Business & Culture Council (GNBCC). The GNBCC announced its intensive Trade Mission to Amsterdam, designed to connect Ghanaian businesses with Dutch investors and companies. The mission will focus on logistics, agro-processing, compliance with EU deforestation regulations, and innovation in horticulture and cocoa.

Speaking on behalf of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Mr. Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey Santana, Deputy CEO, highlighted tourism’s role in driving trade and investment. He reaffirmed GTA’s commitment to supporting global platforms like GhanaFest Europe and positioning Ghana as Africa’s preferred tourism destination.

What to Expect in Amsterdam

The 2026 edition will feature three thematic pillars:

• Trade Exhibition: showcasing Ghanaian and Dutch products and services.
• Business-to-Business Matchmaking: structured sessions connecting Ghanaian enterprises with European investors and partners.
• Cultural Diplomacy & Tourism Promotion: including a landmark Highlife Music Concert, celebrating UNESCO’s inscription of Ghanaian Highlife on the Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Delegates will also embark on Dutch Business Facility Tours, gaining exposure to advanced logistics hubs, greenhouses, and innovative production systems.

The launch underscored the strong institutional backing behind GhanaFest Europe. Partners include the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, GNCCI, the Ghana Embassy in the Netherlands, the GNBCC, the Royal Netherlands Embassy in Ghana, the Diaspora Affairs Office, and the Ghana Tourism Authority. Their collective support signals Ghana’s united commitment to advancing trade, culture, and investment ties with Europe.

Conclusion

GhanaFest Europe 2026 is more than an expo; it is a declaration that Ghana is open for business, ready for global partnerships, and rising as a hub for trade, tourism, and cultural diplomacy. GNCCI President and leadership reaffirmed the Chamber’s role as a convener of business opportunities, ensuring that Ghanaian enterprises are well-positioned to benefit from this landmark event.