Access Bank Ghana has established a dedicated Turkish Desk to enhance trade and investment flows between Ghana and Turkey, with a focus on boosting manufacturing and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
The initiative aims to serve as a comprehensive platform for businesses from both countries seeking to expand their operations regionally.
James Bruce, Executive Director of Wholesale Banking at Access Bank Ghana, described the move as a strategic effort to strengthen economic ties.
“This desk will provide Ghanaian businesses with direct access to Turkish suppliers, secure trade terms, and expert guidance tailored to both markets,” he said. The bank projects that the initiative could help double bilateral trade volumes from $600 million to $1.2 billion by streamlining cross-border transactions.
Turkish investors have primarily engaged in Ghana’s construction, retail, and healthcare sectors, but Access Bank sees untapped potential in manufacturing. Bruce cited a $50 million Turkish manufacturing facility currently under development as an example of growing interest.
“When Turkish businesses see a trusted local partner and government support, investment becomes more appealing,” he noted. The Turkish Desk follows similar successful models the bank has implemented with German, Chinese, and Lebanese partners.
To facilitate smoother operations, Access Bank is collaborating with Ghanaian institutions such as the Ghana Free Zones Authority and the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre. The bank also aims to position Ghana as a gateway for Turkish businesses looking to expand into other African markets. “Our presence across the continent allows us to support Turkish companies not just in Ghana but throughout Africa,” Bruce added.
For Ghanaian SMEs, the bank is rolling out capacity-building programs in partnership with Development Bank Ghana and other entities. These initiatives include training, certification, and access to blended finance solutions with support from partners like Mastercard.
“We’re addressing the financing gap by offering risk-sharing schemes that reduce collateral requirements by up to 50%,” Bruce explained. He highlighted the critical role of SMEs in Ghana’s economic growth, pointing to success stories like beverage manufacturer Kasapreko as examples of scalable local businesses.
The launch of the Turkish Desk underscores Access Bank’s broader strategy to foster intra-African and global trade while empowering local enterprises. As Ghana continues to attract foreign investment, such initiatives could play a pivotal role in diversifying the economy and creating new opportunities for SMEs.
The bank’s approach reflects a growing trend among African financial institutions to bridge gaps between local businesses and international markets, ensuring sustainable economic growth.
