Ghana, Colombia sign direct maritime corridor deal, linking Tema to Cartagena
The initiative will create a new maritime trade corridor designed to facilitate cargo flows and expand economic cooperation between the two regions.
GHANA – Ghana and Colombia have signed an agreement to establish direct maritime connectivity between the Port of Tema and the Port of Cartagena, a move expected to strengthen trade links between Africa and Latin America.
The agreement was signed in Bogotá, Colombia, following negotiations between the two countries.
Strategic Significance for Food Trade
The planned connection between the two major ports is expected to improve logistics links and provide exporters with more efficient access to markets across the Atlantic.
Currently, cargo moving between West Africa and South America often relies on transshipment via European or North American hubs, adding days or weeks to transit times and increasing the risk of spoilage for temperature-sensitive products such as fruits, vegetables, and frozen seafood.
Therefore, a direct Tema-Cartagena route eliminates these intermediate stops, potentially reducing voyage times from over 30 days to approximately 15 days. For Ghanaian exporters of cocoa, pineapples, bananas, and processed foods, this means fresher product arrival and extended shelf life in Latin American markets.
Conversely, Colombian exporters of avocados, coffee, citrus, and tropical fruits gain more reliable access to West African consumers.
Leadership and Direct Statements
According to a social media post by Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the initiative will create a new maritime trade corridor designed to facilitate cargo flows and expand economic cooperation between the two regions.
“This new maritime link symbolizes a transformation of the historic Atlantic corridor between our two countries,” Ablakwa said, commenting on the broader significance of the partnership.
Ablakwa also highlighted the role of Colombia’s Vice President Francia Elena Márquez Mina, the country’s first Afro-Colombian Vice President, in championing the initiative. He further acknowledged the contribution of Colombian Foreign Minister Rosa Yolanda Villavicencio, thanking her for her leadership during the negotiations.
Outlook for Regional Food Investors
The agreement marks a step toward strengthening Ghana-Colombia economic relations, while opening new opportunities for trade, logistics cooperation, and cargo movement between Africa and Latin America.
As direct shipping schedules stabilize, niche Latin American products such as quinoa, dragon fruit, and passionfruit could find new markets in West Africa. In contrast, Ghanaian shea butter and processed fruits gain footholds in South America.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
