The Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) PLC has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ghanaian businesses in competing effectively in global markets by hosting a high-impact Trade Seminar in Kumasi. The seminar, held at the Lancaster Hotel on Thursday, July 9, 2026, was to educate, engage, and strengthen relationships with the business community on international trade and business financing.
The seminar brought together importers, exporters, manufacturers, SMEs, agribusiness operators, and corporate customers to discuss practical solutions for expanding international trade, managing trade risks, accessing finance, and leveraging ADB’s comprehensive trade services.
Addressing participants, the Managing Director of ADB PLC, Edward Ato Sarpong, underscored the Bank’s strategic commitment to positioning itself as the preferred financial partner for businesses seeking growth within andbeyond Ghana’s borders.
“Trade remains one of the strongest drivers of economic transformation. At ADB, we are committed to equipping Ghanaian businesses with the financial solutions, advisory support, and global banking partnerships they need to compete confidently in international markets,” he said. “Our objective is not simply to finance transactions but to build businesses capable of creating jobs, earning foreign exchange and contributing meaningfully to Ghana’s economic development,” Ato Sarpong added.
Mr. Sarpong noted that ADB continues to invest in innovative trade finance solutions that simplify cross-border transactions while supporting businesses across agriculture, manufacturing, commerce, and industry.
Speaking on the Bank’s retail strategy, the General Manager in charge of Retail Banking, Frank Okyere-Adarkwa, emphasized that trade finance is becoming increasingly important for businesses of all sizes.
“Whether you are a growing SME importing machinery, an agribusiness exporting produce or an established corporate trading internationally, ADB has tailored financial solutions to support your growth journey,” the GM Retail Banking stated. He noted that seminars like this allows us (ADB) to bring banking closer to businesses by providing practical knowledge that enables informed decision-making.
Mr. Adarkwa encouraged businesses to leverage ADB’s expanding suite of products designed to improve cash flow, facilitate international payments, and enhance competitiveness.
In her presentation, the Head of Trade Finance, RisikatuSanda, highlighted the importance of understanding international trade processes and utilizing appropriate banking instruments to mitigate risk. “International trade presents enormous opportunities, but it also requires the right structures and safeguards. Our role is to help businesses navigate documentary credits, guarantees, collections, foreign trade payments and regulatory requirements with confidence,” she said. “Knowledge is as important as finance in successful international trade,”Madam Risikatu added.
She encouraged participants to work closely with ADB’s trade specialists to structure transactions that minimize risk while maximizing business opportunities.
Welcoming participants to Kumasi, the Area Manager, Felix Segu Eshun, described the Ashanti Region as one of Ghana’s most vibrant commercial centres whose businesses possess tremendous potential for regional and international expansion.
“Kumasi continues to serve as a major hub for commerce, manufacturing, and agribusiness. We believe the businesses here are well positioned to access international markets, and ADB remains committed to providing the financial support, advisory services, and partnerships necessary to help them succeed, ” Mr. Eshunsaid.
The interactive seminar featured presentations on trade finance products, foreign exchange solutions, letters of credit, guarantees, import and export financing, documentary collections, and practical strategies for navigating global trade challenges.
Participants also engaged directly with ADB’s trade specialists, sharing experiences, seeking clarification on trade-related issues, and exploring financing opportunities tailored to their business needs.
The seminar forms part of ADB’s broader strategy to deepen customer engagement, strengthen Ghana’s import and export ecosystem, promote entrepreneurship, and support businesses that contribute to national economic growth.
