Non-traditional exports through the cargo village at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) have been recording steady growth since 1995.

Imports, through the same route, however, have slowed down considerably over the past three years.

Pineapples account for about 60 per cent of exports through KIA, while yams, vegetables and handicrafts make up 35 and five percent respectively.

Statistics available to the Ghana News Agency show that 25,301 tonnes of the items were exported in 1998; 29,880 in 1999 and 32,379 tonnes last year.

Commodities exported from January 1998 to July 2001 stood at 64,071 tonnes.

Mr Maxwell Arthur, Director, Corporate Planning, of the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority said there was a drop in exports in the first half of this year, as against the same period last year. This he said was due to a slow down of economic activity in the country and the temporary ban on yam exports.

He also mentioned the rather stiff competition from the export of similar products on the world market from the Caribbean, saying, "this really hit our drive."

Mr Arthur was quick to add that business is likely to pick up by September.

An official of African Ground Operations (AFGO), said the demand for pineapples is now on a daily basis, unlike previously when such exports were seasonal.

The survival of the aviation industry depends largely on the economic well being of the country, he said adding, " there is a correlation between Gross Domestic Product and exports especially through KIA”.

In 1999 imports recorded 16,877 tonnes while in 2000 it was 14,447 tonnes.

He said imports are expected to increase by December, when traders and importers bring in goods for the Yuletide.

Estimated revenue accruing from exports and imports through AFGO in 2000 was 8.3 million dollars, while that of the first half of this year stands at 3.7 million dollars.