The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has released data indicating a significant surge in tourist arrivals, recording 304,171 individuals in the third quarter of the current year.

This marks a notable increase from the 258,246 visitors recorded in 2022, reflecting an impressive annual growth rate of 17.8%. The central bank attributes this rise to a boost in tourism-related activities during the specified review period.

In contrast, a recent report from Joynews reveals a decline in international trade at Ghana's principal harbors, Tema and Takoradi.

The decline is specifically observed in laden container traffic for both inbound and outbound containers during the third quarter of 2023.

The total container traffic witnessed a decrease of 2.1%, dropping from 158,514 in the second quarter of 2023 to 155,146.

"Total container traffic for inbound and outbound containers decreased by 2.1% to 155,146, from 158,514 recorded in Q2 2023," the news portal said.

Analysts link this downturn in port activities to subdued international trade dynamics and point to ongoing geopolitical tensions as additional contributing factors during the review period.