The Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) paid a courtesy call on the Ministry of Finance, led by Dr. Humphrey Kwesi Ayim Darke, President of AGI, and Mr Seth Twum-Akwaboah, CEO of AGI. They met with Dr. Cassiel Ato Baah Forson, the Minister of Finance, to congratulate him and discuss areas of industry that require support for wholesome development.
The minister expressed interest in developing fiscal policies to protect local industries, enabling them to source raw materials domestically. He announced plans to introduce a policy requiring state agencies to procure essential goods exclusively from local producers.
Dr. Ayim Darke applauded the minister for addressing concerns raised by Captains of industry and acknowledged the government’s initiatives would help solve problems such as job creation and import substitution
The issue of smuggling was also discussed, with Mr. Seth Twum Akwaboah highlighting its adverse effects on local manufacturers and businesses. Dr. Ato Forson assured AGI that the government has located key smuggling routes and is taking steps to nip challenges regarding smuggled goods in the bud and would soon deploy measures to check smuggled goods and unfair trade practices.
The meeting concluded with a proposal for a working session between industry stakeholders and the ministry to explore ways local businesses and manufacturers can participate in the government’s 24-hour economy program to foster industrial production and economic growth in the nation.
