The Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced a bold new directive that will require all public sector institutions to source specific essential goods exclusively from local producers. The policy forms a critical pillar in the government’s renewed strategy to industrialize the economy, reduce Ghana’s over-reliance on imports, and create sustainable employment opportunities.
Dr. Forson made the announcement during a high-level strategic meeting with the leadership of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), where he outlined a vision for a more self-reliant and production-driven economy
“It is unacceptable that Ghana continues to import basic commodities like rice and sugar when we have the capacity to produce them locally,” Dr. Forson said. “To change this narrative, the government will soon release a list of essential goods that all public sector agencies will be mandated to procure locally. Any procurement from abroad will require express approval from the Office of the President.”
This new procurement policy is expected to significantly boost demand for locally made goods, thereby strengthening domestic industries and opening new opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to thrive within the national supply chain
In addition to the local sourcing initiative, the Finance Minister raised alarm over the growing menace of smuggling, which continues to erode the gains of Ghanaian businesses. He revealed that government intelligence has identified major smuggling routes and assured that rigorous enforcement measures are on the way to tackle the issue head-on.
“Smuggled goods are crippling our local businesses and distorting fair competition,” Dr. Forson stated. “We are taking decisive action to eliminate these illegal practices and protect the integrity of our domestic market.”
Dr. Forson also emphasized the importance of strategic collaboration between the government and private sector stakeholders. He invited industry leaders to a forthcoming working session aimed at aligning local businesses with the government’s 24-hour economy programme, a key initiative designed to maximize productivity and national output.
“We can only build a resilient and prosperous economy if the public and private sectors work hand-in-hand,” he noted. “This policy is just one step in a larger framework of reforms meant to transform Ghana’s economic landscape.”
Responding to the announcement, AGI President Dr. Humphrey Ayim-Darke praised the initiative and reaffirmed the association’s support for policies that prioritize local content.
“This is a major step in the right direction,” Dr. Ayim-Darke said. “If properly implemented, the local procurement policy will significantly enhance the competitiveness of our local manufacturers and ensure that public funds are reinvested into our own economy.”
He added that consistent dialogue and proactive engagement between government and industry players would be essential to fully realize the policy’s impact.
As the government moves to roll out the policy, businesses across the country are being encouraged to scale up their operations, improve standards, and position themselves to take advantage of the new opportunities.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
