The government is gearing up to establish a specialized economic zone policy, aiming to provide a framework for both domestic and international exporters.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo emphasized that the policy will concentrate on crucial sectors such as manufacturing and trade, aiming to foster job creation and attract foreign direct investment (FDI).
During the 31st and 32nd President’s National Awards for Export Achievement, organized by the Ghana Export Promotion Authority (GEPA) in partnership with the Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA), President Akufo-Addo reiterated the government’s dedication to continually legislate to revitalize the export sector.
“I want to assure you that your governing laws are being reviewed to position them better to facilitate, develop, and promote Ghana’s traditional exports.”
“Furthermore, the Ministry of Trade and Industry is in the process of forming a specialized economic zone policy. Special economic zones aim to create an environment that is attractive for domestic and foreign companies to establish their basis of operations in Ghana,” the President noted.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for GEPA, Dr. Efua Asabea Asare, urged exporters to be dedicated to sustainable practices to enhance the facilitation of export commodities across the globe.
Dr. Asare indicated that customers had become more conscious of the environmental and social consequences of the commodities they buy; as such, it was imperative for exporters to place a premium on best practices that govern their trade.
The CEO of the GFZA, Michael Ocquaye Junior, stressed the need to invest in research and adopt a collaborative approach involving government, academia, and the private sector to drive sustainable exports.
“To drive sustainable exports, we must invest in research and development, encourage innovation, and foster collaboration between the government and the private sector and academia,” he said.
The 2021 and 2022 Exporter of the Year were awarded to B5 Plus Limited, which exports iron and steel products.