Mahama woos Thai investors for 12,000-hectare oil palm plantation in Ghana

President John Mahama has encouraged Thai investors to pursue plans to establish a 12,000-hectare oil palm plantation and a modern processing mill in Ghana.

He said the government was ready to support the proposed investment, which is being discussed between the Tree Crops Development Authority and prospective Thai investors.

President Mahama made the appeal when he welcomed Thailand's new Ambassador to Ghana, Thirapath Mongkolnavin, and reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

He said Ghana was keen to deepen cooperation with Thailand, particularly in areas that could promote economic growth and development.

“The growing interest of the Thai business community in Ghana is appreciated and I encourage further investment in manufacturing, agriculture, agro-processing technology and infrastructure,” he said.

The President acknowledged the contributions of Thai companies operating in Ghana, including Thai Union Group and Indorama Ventures Packaging, describing their investments as valuable to the Ghanaian economy.

He also expressed support for ongoing discussions towards a bilateral investment treaty and the establishment of a Ghana-Thailand Business Council.

According to him, the proposed arrangements would help facilitate trade, protect investments and strengthen partnerships between businesses in the two countries.

President Mahama further encouraged the continuation of engagements between the Tree Crops Development Authority and potential Thai investors on the proposed oil palm project.

“I encourage you to continue the engagement between the Tree Crops Development Authority and prospective Thai investors in advancing the proposed establishment of a 12,000-hectare oil palm plantation and a modern processing mill in Ghana,” he said.

He assured the Ambassador of the government's readiness to provide the necessary support to strengthen economic ties and ensure a successful tenure.

“Ghana is ready to work closely with you and reaffirms its commitment to deepening bilateral ties with Thailand, which are founded on mutual respect, shared interests and a common desire to promote economic growth and development,” he added.