Golden Exotic Limited, a supplier of Fairtrade Bananas in Europe, based in Kasunya Asutsuare, Shai Osudoko District, is setting its sights on expanding its market reach within the West African region. The company, which currently exports 80% of its produce to Europe and the remaining 20% to African nations such as Senegal, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, and Benin, aims to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for broader regional trade opportunities. This was highlighted by the Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, during the company's 20th Anniversary. He emphasized the potential for this expansion to enhance regional trade and support sustainable development.
Over the past two decades, Golden Exotics has grown significantly, now employing 4,000 permanent workers and managing over 2,000 hectares of banana plantation, with an annual export volume of 100,000 tons of bananas. This growth has not only positioned the company as a significant player in the agricultural sector, but also as a vital contributor to Ghana's economy, generating over €60 mln annually in foreign exchange and contributing more than €20 mln locally through various expenditures.
At its anniversary event, the company reiterated its dedication to transformation and empowerment, key aspects of its core values. Golden Exotics Limited (GEL) boasts one of the largest organic banana farms globally, accounting for 90% of Ghana's banana exports. The Managing Director, Benedict Rich, shared insights into the company's journey from acquiring sugar cane farms to becoming an industry leader. Despite challenges, GEL has embraced innovative practices such as organic farming, barcode marking on banana trees, and solar power, underscoring its commitment to sustainability and efficiency. The company's success is attributed to the support from partners, government agencies, and the local community.
Source: graphic.com.gh