How time flies. Ten years ago founders of Able Import and Export Trading Company Limited (AIETC), a subsidiary of the Jospong Group of Companies, took advantage of the growing global influence of the Chinese economy and positioned itself as one of the leading private sector actors; playing its rightful role in the growth and prosperity of Ghana and Africa.
Little did they know then their venture was going to be one that would offer jobs to people and promote trade.
Today AITEC, which offers job opportunities for both Ghanaian and Chinese citizens, is engaged in trading with over 300 companies in China -- both private and state-owned -- and is a partner in the manufacture and supply of equipment and materials worth over US$485million to Ghana and other parts of Africa.
At a well-attended event to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the company in the Chinese capital, Beijing, Ghana’s Ambassador to China, Mr. Anani Okuminyi Demuyakor, praised the company for lifting high the red, gold and green flag of Ghana.
This singular feat has placed the country on a high pedestal within the Chinese economy, which must spur other people on, he said. It shows that the business communities from the two countries can do business in a conducive environment.
AITEC’s activities are a clear departure from the acrimonious business relations that exist between some Ghanaian and Chinese businesses, especially in the retail trade and mining activities, the Ambassador told journalists in an interview.
“I am highly proud of the path that AITEC has charted for itself, and very optimistic that it will grow from strength to strength.â€Â
He is of the view that Chinese investors need not be blamed entirely for some of the unfortunate developments in trade relations with Ghana.
It is sad, he said, that some locals conspire with those foreigners who disregard the law. Studies conducted by the Embassy have revealed that most retail shops operated by the Chinese are either owned or rented by Ghanaians, who have willingly given them out to the Chinese to do business.
He said efforts are being made by the two countries to ensure that the right investors are given the opportunity to take advantage of growing opportunities in the two countries
Government, he said, will for a start bring together business owners from both countries to devise a common platform where issues affecting their partnerships can be addressed swiftly.
He advised the Ghanaian business community wishing to trade with their counterparts in China to liaise with Ghana’s Embassy in China in order to avoid dealing with non-existing companies.
“Dealing with prospective business counterparts solely online may be dangerous without verification of the authenticity of such businesses,†he warned.
It is very disheartening, he said, that some Ghanaian business people bypass the Embassy in their dealings and only show up to solicit support when they encounter problems.
Present at the event was the Chairman of Jospong Group, Dr. Joseph Agyapong. He said more efforts are being made to cement the partnership between his company and those in China in order to move into “deeper areas of businessâ€Â.
"We [AIETC] are proud to have lifted the name of Ghana high. This year, the group was listed in grade 'A' in export to Ghana by the Chinese government,†he announced.
“We are incredibly excited about this journey and truly believe the best of the Jospong Group is yet to come. We would therefore like to emphasise our readiness to partner with all potential investors worldwide in a mutually beneficial way.â€Â
AIETC has two branches in China, located in Beijing and Tianjing, employing at least 50 Chinese nationals who are supervised by two Ghanaian expatriates.
Volume of trade
Trade between China and Ghana has surpassed US$5billion annually, with the scale tilting in favour of China.
Commodities exported to China included cashew, cocoa, fish products and scrap-metals, while commodities exported to Ghana include electrical products, cars, house-hold items, machinery and chemicals.
By William Selassy Adjadogo | B&FT Online | Ghana
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