Ghana's National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) established a technical team to develop a strategy document. This document will guide the government's response to significant shifts in the global economy. The team was inaugurated on May 7, 2026.
These shifts include the impact of the Iran war, changing geopolitical alliances, and the return of aggressive tariff policies by the United States. The strategy aims to help Ghana navigate a world economy entering a more uncertain phase. This phase features realigning trade blocs and redrawing supply chains.
This initiative fits into Ghana’s broader economic story of seeking diversification and industrial growth. Data from the NDPC shows increasing global uncertainty. Shifts include changes in trade between Canada and the European Union, away from the US. The rise of new economic powers like Vietnam and China’s support for African exports are also notable. Ghana aims to reposition itself based on tested assumptions about markets and alliances.
Dr. Nii Moi Thompson, Chairman of the NDPC, inaugurated the team. He emphasized preparing Ghana for global economic shifts, not just short-term responses. Dr. Thompson is also the President’s Senior Advisor on the UN Sustainable Development Goals. He stated that major global economic shifts began before current geopolitical tensions and will likely continue.
The team will examine policy options to help Ghana reposition itself. This includes assessing China’s new tariff-free access scheme for African countries. The team will determine which products are covered and how Ghana can fully use this opportunity. It will also explore prospects within the African Continental Free Trade Area, emerging markets in Latin America and Asia, and traditional markets.
For Ghana, this team's work could significantly shape the next phase of economic transformation. The country has long worked to diversify exports and build stronger industrial capacity. A changing global order requires a more focused and coordinated strategy. The NDPC’s focus on industrial, trade, and competition policies is crucial. These areas will form the basis for recommendations on accelerating industrialization and modernizing the economy.
The challenge has two parts. Ghana must protect itself from global shocks like war, tariffs, and supply chain disruptions. It must also identify new markets, production opportunities, and diplomatic alignments. This will support exports, investment, and job creation. The technical team comprises experts from various fields. These include economics, trade statistics, diplomacy, and central banking. This composition ensures a comprehensive approach to the strategic process.