Leather products producers under the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) met on 12 October 2026 to agree on collective action to improve market access, create predictable demand, address skills shortages and reduce the high cost of raw materials.
The engagement highlighted key barriers to the growth of Ghana’s leather products industry, including limited market opportunities, costly imported inputs, skills gaps and the need to strengthen business management for both immediate performance and long-term expansion.
Participants called for coordinated efforts to translate market opportunities into sustained orders for locally manufactured leather goods. They identified predictable demand as essential to production planning, investment, job creation and the competitiveness of Ghanaian producers.
Advocacy and raw material costs
An advocacy committee was established to advance the issues discussed and coordinate engagement with relevant stakeholders.
A key policy priority is advocacy for zero-rated import tariffs on essential raw materials that producers depend on imports to obtain. The proposed relief would help reduce production costs and improve the competitiveness of locally manufactured leather products. This remains a policy proposal for government consideration.
Skills development and training
The meeting identified practical training as a priority for closing the sector’s skills gaps. Participants agreed on the need to train artisans in new ways of working and pursue collaboration with Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and technical schools.
These partnerships would support the development of skilled workers, improve production practices and strengthen the industry’s capacity to serve growing market demand.
Access to finance
AGI also outlined efforts to explore credit facilities for women in business. Initial engagements with EXIM Bank and Development Bank are underway, with feedback expected within one week of the meeting. These discussions are at the initiation stage.
The way forward
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration, with follow-up efforts focused on advancing the advocacy agenda, pursuing market opportunities, developing training partnerships and obtaining feedback on financing options.
The engagement provides a platform for a coordinated industry response to the challenges facing Ghana’s leather producers. Through sustained cooperation with government, financial institutions, training providers and buyers, the sector aims to build a stronger foundation for competitive local production and predictable demand.
ENDS
Media enquiries:
Mrs. Edwina Assan
Chairperson, Textiles, Garment & Leather Sector
Association of Ghana Industries
0244368044
agi@agighana.org