Ghana has formally acceded to the Advisory Centre on WTO Law (ACWL), a move expected to significantly strengthen the country’s capacity to engage effectively in the multilateral trading system.
The Protocol of Accession was signed on Thursday, December 18, 2025, in Geneva by Ghana’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office, the World Trade Organisation (WTO), and other international organisations, Emmanuel Asiedu Antwi.
Ghana’s membership of the ACWL will enhance access to specialised legal advice, technical training, and expert support on WTO law. This includes assistance in areas such as trade remedies, dispute settlement, and compliance, thereby strengthening the country’s ability to safeguard its trade and development interests.
The accession underscores Ghana’s commitment to a rules-based, inclusive, and development-oriented multilateral trading system. It also aligns with ongoing government efforts to improve trade governance, promote export diversification, and support industrialisation, particularly the growth of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Antwi expressed Ghana’s appreciation to the Advisory Centre on WTO Law for its cooperation, as well as to the Government and people of Norway for their financial support, which facilitated Ghana’s accession.
He further acknowledged the leadership of the Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, noting that her determination and strategic direction were instrumental in completing the accession process before the end of the year.
According to Ambassador Antwi, the timely conclusion of the process reflects strong political commitment and effective inter-ministerial coordination to enhance Ghana’s standing in global trade governance.
The Government of Ghana says it looks forward to a productive partnership with the ACWL, particularly in building domestic legal expertise, supporting effective participation in WTO dispute settlement, and reinforcing confidence in a fair, predictable, and transparent multilateral trading system.
