The African Trade Chamber appointed Anthony G. Hylton to its Advisory Board on October 15, 2024. Hylton served as Jamaica's Minister of Industry, Investment and Commerce from 2012 to 2016. The Chamber announced the appointment at its Accra headquarters. This move aims to strengthen economic ties between Africa and the Caribbean.

Hylton's Background and Role

Anthony Hylton brings extensive trade policy experience to the African Trade Chamber. He led Jamaica's trade negotiations during his ministerial tenure. Hylton will advise on Caribbean-African economic cooperation strategies. His appointment signals the Chamber's focus on expanding regional partnerships. The Advisory Board guides the Chamber's strategic direction on trade matters.

The African Trade Chamber's Current Initiatives

The African Trade Chamber operates from its main office in Accra, Ghana. It works with the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat. The Chamber helps businesses navigate the AfCFTA agreement implementation. It provides trade facilitation services across 54 African countries. Recent programs include the digital Trade Corridor Initiative launched in 2023. This initiative connects African businesses with global digital markets.

Why It Matters

This appointment matters because Africa-Caribbean trade remains underdeveloped. Total trade between the regions reached $1.8 billion in 2023 according to UNCTAD data. That represents only 0.3% of Africa's total global trade. The African Development Bank reports intra-African trade grew 15% in 2023. Caribbean trade with Africa grew just 3% during the same period. Hylton's expertise could help bridge this gap. Stronger ties could boost agricultural exports and tourism flows.

What Businesses Should Watch

Businesses should watch for new trade agreements between African and Caribbean nations. The Ghana Investment Promotion Centre may announce Caribbean partnership programs. Companies like MTN Ghana and Ecobank could expand Caribbean operations. The African Export-Import Bank might increase Caribbean lending facilities. Watch for regulatory changes at Ghana's Customs Division. These could simplify Caribbean import procedures. Monitor the Chamber's quarterly trade reports for partnership opportunities.

Economic Context and Opportunities

Ghana's economy grew 2.9% in 2023 according to the Ghana Statistical Service. The services sector contributed 46% to GDP. Tourism arrivals increased 12% to 1.2 million visitors. Caribbean tourists represented only 4% of this total. The Ghana Free Zones Authority offers tax incentives for export-oriented businesses. These incentives include 10-year corporate tax holidays. Caribbean businesses could use Ghana as an African entry point.

Implementation Timeline and Costs

The African Trade Chamber will implement new Caribbean initiatives in 2025. Initial programs require $5 million (₵60 million) in funding. The Chamber secured $3 million from the African Development Bank. It seeks $2 million from private sector partners. Businesses must register with the Ghana Registrar General's Department. Registration costs ₵500 ($42) for local companies. Foreign companies pay ₵2,000 ($167). The Ghana Standards Authority charges ₵1,000 ($83) for product certification.

Regulatory Requirements

Businesses trading between Africa and the Caribbean need specific permits. The Ghana Food and Drugs Authority requires product registration. Registration takes 30-60 days and costs ₵2,000-₵5,000 ($167-$417). The Environmental Protection Agency issues environmental permits. These cost ₵1,000 ($83) and require 45-day processing. The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority handles customs clearance. Clearance fees range from 0.5% to 5% of cargo value.

Future Outlook

The African Trade Chamber plans to launch a Caribbean trade desk in early 2025. This desk will operate from the Chamber's Accra office. It will provide market intelligence and matchmaking services. The Chamber targets 20% growth in Africa-Caribbean trade by 2026. This growth could create 5,000 new jobs across both regions. Success depends on private sector engagement and regulatory cooperation.