The government is preparing to roll out a new directive that will mandate state institutions to source certain essential goods—such as rice and sugar—exclusively from domestic producers, unless they receive special clearance from the Office of the President.
This policy was announced by the Minister of Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, during a meeting with the leadership of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI). He framed the initiative as part of a larger strategy to boost local manufacturing, generate employment, and decrease Ghana’s dependence on imported products.
Dr. Forson questioned the rationale behind the continued importation of basic food items like rice and sugar, given Ghana’s ability to produce them internally.
He stressed that sustainable national development hinges on a robust industrial base. While acknowledging the value of international trade, he argued that purposeful government intervention is needed to nurture and protect local industries.
Dr. Forson also expressed concern over the damage caused by smuggling, which he said undermines legitimate Ghanaian enterprises by flooding the market with illegally imported goods sold at lower prices.
“The government has mapped out smuggling routes,” he stated, “and will soon implement measures to block the entry of illegal products that create unfair competition for local manufacturers.”
As part of a broader push for industrial growth, Dr. Forson proposed a collaborative session with leaders from the private sector to explore how businesses can take advantage of the government’s 24-hour economy initiative to scale up production and drive economic expansion.
AGI President Dr. Humphrey Ayim-Darke welcomed the policy, describing it as a promising move toward reviving the country’s industrial base.
He noted that continued engagement between government and industry players would be critical in overcoming the structural hurdles that local businesses currently face.
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