Minister for Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson speaking to the leadership of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) on Thursday, noted that the Ministry will soon publish a list of items that all government agencies must procure locally to ensure that state resources are used to develop Ghanaian industries.
Adding that moving forward, any government procurement outside Ghana will require special approval from the Office of the President.”
According to the Finance Minister, agri-business is one critical area the country has significant potential to expand its reach into markets in the Sahel region and neighbouring countries and therefore urged industry leaders to identify key sectors where the government can support them through fiscal policies that protect and grow local businesses.
“It is unacceptable that Ghana continues to import basic commodities like sugar and rice when we have the capacity to produce them locally. That is why the government is taking decisive steps to support local production,” he stated.
“As part of this, we will soon publish a list of items that all government agencies must procure locally to ensure that state resources are used to develop Ghanaian industries,” he added.
Speaking further, he assured AGI that the government is tackling the issue of smuggled goods, which are hurting local businesses. “We have identified the smuggling routes, and concrete measures to stop this practice will be announced soon,” he noted.
“As a government, we are committed to building local industrial giants that can compete in the sub-region and beyond. Together, we will transform Ghana’s economy through strategic policies, industrial expansion, and job creation,” the Minister further noted.
AGI President, Mr. Humphrey Ayim Dake, welcomed these initiatives and commended the government’s commitment to industrial growth. He expressed optimism about further engagements to shape policies that support Ghanaian businesses.
The meeting between the Finance Minister and the leadership of the AGI was to discuss strategies for strengthening Ghana’s industrial base and creating sustainable jobs.
Credit:NORVANREPORTS