Automobile, EV sector: new AfCFTA opportunity for Ghana 

International Trade Consultant Louis Yaw Afful has revealed that the automobile and electric vehicle (EV) sector is emerging as a major opportunity for Ghana under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). 

Mr Afful explained that ongoing negotiations on rules of origin for automobiles were expected to unlock regional value chains in vehicle assembly, spare parts, and accessories. 

He said countries such as South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt were already far advanced in automobile manufacturing, and Ghana could benefit by developing component production, including tyres and vehicle accessories. 

He recalled that Ghana previously had a tyre manufacturing industry, stressing that reviving such industries could enhance the country’s export competitiveness under AfCFTA. 

Mr Afful, speaking at a Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) media forum, added that the global shift toward electric vehicles created additional opportunities for Ghana to position itself within Africa’s evolving automotive supply chain. 

Touching on other related issues, he said the liberalisation of services under the AfCFTA could significantly transform Ghana’s tourism, maritime, and transport sectors. 

He explained that services such as tourism, transport, finance, ICT, and professional services were central to AfCFTA, with services contributing over 50 per cent of Ghana’s gross domestic product (GDP). 

Mr Afful said Ghana could leverage maritime transport to link ports with major tourism destinations such as Cape Coast and Elmina, reducing road congestion and enhancing visitor experience. 

He cited examples from Senegal, where maritime transport was integrated with heritage tourism to boost local economies. 

The consultant urged Ghana to accelerate negotiations and regulatory reforms to attract service-sector investment and expand cross-border service exports under AfCFTA. 

Source: GNA 

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