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The Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has revealed that the government is set to introduce a new policy that will mandate all state institutions to procure selected essential goods exclusively from local manufacturers.
Speaking at a high-level meeting with the leadership of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Dr. Forson emphasized the urgent need to reduce Ghana’s dependency on imports for products that can be locally produced. He specifically mentioned commodities like rice and sugar, lamenting the country’s continued reliance on foreign sources despite having the capacity to produce them domestically.
“To support our local industries, the government will soon publish a list of items that all public sector agencies must procure locally. This will ensure that government procurement serves as a tool to develop our industries,” the Minister stated. He further added, “Going forward, any government procurement from outside Ghana will require special approval from the Office of the President.”
Dr. Forson also drew attention to the growing challenge of smuggling, which he said is negatively affecting the operations of local producers. He assured the AGI that steps are being taken to address the issue. “The government has identified key smuggling routes and will soon announce strict measures to stop the influx of smuggled goods that unfairly compete with locally manufactured products,” he said.
As part of the government’s broader industrial transformation agenda, Dr. Forson proposed a collaborative working session with key players in the manufacturing sector. This initiative, he explained, will help identify strategies for involving local businesses in the government’s 24-hour economy programme aimed at boosting productivity and driving economic growth.
In response, AGI President Dr. Humphrey Ayim-Darke commended the Finance Minister for his proactive approach and praised the 2024 budget for its focus on industrial development. He expressed optimism that sustained collaboration between government and industry stakeholders would lead to meaningful progress in Ghana’s economic landscape.
The forthcoming local procurement directive is expected to significantly benefit Ghanaian manufacturers by ensuring that public sector spending directly contributes to strengthening domestic production and expanding the national economy.
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