This study explored the role of state and non-state associations in facilitating domestic and cross-border trading opportunities for fish. Issues such as the awareness of the association about certification procedures as well as standards and regulations for trade are also explored. Results for the study are based on interviews as well as discussions with nine state and non-state associations offish producers, processors and traders in the major fishing communities in Ghana. Generally, it was observed that these associations serve as a unifying voice in coordinating the relationships between authorities and traders. By this, small-scaled traders are more likely to receive some form of support when they are part of an association than otherwise. In addition, the more experienced members of the association advices new members on the standards and regulations pertaining to both domestic and cross-border trade.While these associations do not frequently receive supports from organizations, the few are in improving health and safety standards at the market place.This is usually supported by their own efforts such as membership dues. In addition, it was observed that cross-border trade involves much more marine fish products than inland fisheries, with the former more incline to opportunities to trade with Asian countries because of restrictions in Europe. For cross-border trade, the identified routes are mostly from Accra to neighbouring countries and some fish traders bringing in other goods to sell in Accra and at their return, they buy some fish products for their home countries.
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