The Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Hon. Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting local manufacturing, describing the private sector as critical to Ghana’s economic recovery and long-term development.
The Minister gave the assurance when she paid a working visit to Kasapreko PLC and Guinness Ghana Ltd on Friday, February 6, 2026, to engage management and assess challenges confronting the beverage manufacturing industry.
The Hon. Minister was accompanied by the Deputy Minister, Hon. Sampson Ahi, and some Directors of the Ministry.
At Kasapreko PLC, the Hon. Minister and her delegation were welcomed by the Managing Director, Mr Richard Adjei, and members of the management team, who took them through the company’s profile and operations.
Mr Adjei commended Government for reforms that had stabilized the economy, noting that borrowing costs, duties and some taxes had reduced. He also praised the Ministry for extending the repatriation period for export proceeds from 60 days to 120 days, saying it had improved liquidity for exporters.
He, however, expressed concern about the importation of similar goods, describing it as a threat to local production, and called for stronger protection against smuggling and unfair competition.
The Managing Director also raised concerns about inadequate water supply, logistics delays at the borders, non-tariff barriers and documentation challenges, and appealed for urgent interventions.
Kasapreko PLC has operated for 36 years, producing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and is currently preparing to open a new production facility at Adeiso in the Eastern Region.
Responding, Hon. Ofosu-Adjare, said Ghana’s macroeconomic indicators had improved significantly, particularly the stability and appreciation of the cedi, which had eased exchange rate volatility and restored confidence in the business environment.
She said Government would work with the Ghana Water Company and relevant agencies to address water supply challenges affecting Kasapreko and other factories within the Spintex enclave.
“Now, the visits are done and I’ve seen one issue that is popping up and that is water. We are going to work closely with the Ministry of Water Resources and the Ghana Water Company to make sure that they get adequate water supply,” she said.
The Minister also assured manufacturers that the Ministry would engage regulatory bodies to address concerns raised, including documentation and non-tariff barriers affecting trade and logistics.
At Guinness Ghana Ltd, the Minister and her delegation were received by the Managing Director, Mr Frédéric Ferraille, and senior management for discussions and a tour of the production facility.
Mr Ferraille described the visit as an important opportunity to deepen collaboration between Government and Guinness Ghana, stressing the need for a partnership-based relationship.
“In Guinness Ghana Brewery, we are committed to growth and to producing the best quality products for the satisfaction of our consumers. We are also very grateful for your visit and for the opportunity to engage with management,” he said.
Hon Ofosu-Adjare said Government was implementing targeted interventions to boost exports and improve the business climate, including resolving challenges surrounding export proceeds repatriation.
She encouraged companies to expand production and take advantage of national initiatives such as the Accelerated Export Development Programme and the 24-hour economy policy, which she said would support job creation and economic growth.
The Hon Minister further urged importers to transition into manufacturing and source locally where capacity existed, explaining that local production reduced pressure on ports and strengthened the domestic economy.