The Government has revealed plans to establish three new garment factories this year to boost local production and tackle unemployment.
The Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry, Hon. Sampson Ahi, announced this during the launch, fundraising, and induction ceremony of the West African Fashion Consortium-Ghana in Accra.
He noted that the initiative signals the government’s unwavering commitment to revitalizing the textile industry.
Hon. Sampson Ahi, Deputy Minister for Trade, Agribusiness, and Industry
Hon. Ahi, who is also the Member of Parliament for Bodi, revealed that a comprehensive Textile and Garment Policy has been developed and is currently pending submission to Cabinet for consideration.
”We recognize that the sector needs more than encouragement; it needs practical support and a clear policy direction,” Ahi stated.
“The development of this policy is an important step toward giving the sector a stronger framework for local manufacturing, skills development, and value addition.”
He emphasized that the three new factories serve as a “practical signal” of the government’s belief that the garment industry can drive industrial development and provide sustainable opportunities for the youth.
The CEO of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Mr. Seth Twum-Akwaboah, lauded the government for extending the Zero VAT policy on locally produced textiles until 2028.
However, he raised concerns regarding the influx of cheap foreign textiles, which continue to saturate the local market and undermine indigenous businesses.
Mr. Seth Twum-Akwaboah, CEO of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI)
He urged members of the West African Fashion Consortium-Ghana to collaborate with other industry players to lobby for protective policies that will safeguard the local economy.
Patrick Opoku Asante, Vice President of the West African Fashion Consortium-Ghana, called on the government for financial backing and support.
He highlighted the urgent need to bridge the gap between TVET institutions and the industry by engaging clothing students from vocational schools to sharpen their practical skills.
Patrick Opoku Asante, Vice President of the West African Fashion Consortium-Ghana
He further encouraged young people to embrace artisanal skills as a viable path to a secure livelihood.
The event concluded with a collective call for the sector to move beyond mere creativity toward becoming a globally competitive and sustainable industrial pillar.
By 1960news.com
