The Executive Secretary of the Importers and Exporters Association of Ghana (IEAG), Samson Asaki Awingobit, has received international recognition for his contributions to the global rice trade at the 2026 World Rice Conference in the Philippines.

Mr. Awingobit was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by the conference organisers, The Rice Trader and the International Commodity Institute, in recognition of his active participation, knowledge-sharing and contributions to discussions on the international rice industry.

The three-day conference, held from October 7 to 9 at the Dusit Thani Manila, brought together stakeholders across the global rice value chain to discuss market developments, emerging trade opportunities and the future of rice production and commerce.

Mr. Awingobit participated in discussions on issues affecting international rice trade, using the platform to highlight Ghana’s rice import and trade interests while strengthening engagement between Ghanaian businesses and international players in the sector.

His recognition marks another milestone in his engagement with the international rice trade community, particularly efforts to promote collaboration among rice producers, farmers, importers and exporters across different markets.

The 2026 conference marks Mr. Awingobit’s third participation in the international gathering. He previously attended the 2024 edition in Manila and the 2025 conference in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

According to the IEAG, his participation in previous editions has helped connect Ghanaian rice importers with farmers, producers and trading partners in the Philippines and Cambodia, creating opportunities for commercial relationships and access to potential markets.

The Association believes such engagements are critical to strengthening Ghana’s rice supply chain, improving access to international suppliers and establishing partnerships that serve the country’s broader trade interests.

The IEAG expects Mr. Awingobit’s continued involvement in the conference to help deepen international trade relationships, expand business opportunities and improve access to market intelligence for Ghanaian importers and exporters.

The Association has reaffirmed its commitment to strategic international engagements aimed at promoting trade facilitation, strengthening private-sector competitiveness and enhancing Ghana’s position in global commerce.